Daily Reflection for Monday, December 13, 2021
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Monday’s readings at this link:
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/121321.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17a
Responsorial: Psalm 25:4-5ab, 6 and 7bc, 8-9
Gospel: Matthew 21:23-27
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
By what authority are you doing these things? And, who gave you this authority? Matthew 21:23
To whom do you give authority? Many people act, claim and sound like they are speaking with authority. Do they really have authority to sway us? If we allow it.
The Jewish scribes and leaders during Jesus’ life certainly spoke with authority. They dressed well, could read the Torah, and held power within the Jewish community. Therefore, when they publicly asked Jesus who gave him authority to speak, they were exercising their own authority and bringing into question that of Jesus.
Jesus refused to answer their questions. Why?
Jesus knew the scribes were not interested in learning the truth. He knew the scribes were simply posturing their own authority rather than being open to the will of God. So, Jesus asked them a question that would clarify their motive. Was John’s baptism of heavenly or earthy origin?
It became clear the scribes were caught. To retain their authority over the people, they couldn’t alienate them. If the scribes answered, “from God,” then why did the scribes not follow John’s teaching? If they answered, “from man,” they would lose their following of the believers. They could not honestly answer the question posed by Jesus, so they claimed ignorance.
How often do I claim ignorance? Complex and confusing issues arise everyday within our country, the world, and our families. There are loud voices speaking with self-appointed authority and quiet voices we can barely hear. I don’t have all the data and information, so it is easy to claim ignorance.
In today’s scripture, Jesus eliminates the “ignorance” option for Christians. God is the only true authority and his vision is the only one of value. As Christians, we must strive to “see” the world, all of its people and issues, as God sees them. God’s view, our Creator’s view, is the only one with authority. He sent Jesus to show us the way to follow his vision.
If I claim ignorance, am I refusing to see situations as God sees them? Am I refusing to acknowledge what Jesus taught? I believe so.
Who has the greatest authority in your life?
Blessings to you,
Ruth Mytty