Today, the service of the Holy Temple (Beit Hamikdash) is reflected within our own lives.
A central feature of the Temple was the altar (Mizbe'ach) upon which the offerings were burnt. In our own lives that altar is if found within our hearts. When we ignite a passion within our hearts for good things and G-dly things, that passion becomes like the fire of the altar that takes the physicality that we engage in and elevates it to the highest spiritual realms.