Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17; Psalm 25; Matthew 21:23-27
Some people ask questions because they do not want to learn just as we have it in our gospel text. The chief priests and the elders questioned Jesus about his authority not to learn about authority but in order to tame him. Jesus answered their question with a query of His own. The answer to His question would supply the answer to their question. Thus, they were in a dilemma. Beloved, Jesus is a descendent of Jacob, he is the great king spoken of in the first reading, he is also the son of God and so Matt. 28:18 says “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth”. Because Jesus had the Father’s power and authority, He sought no human authority, accreditation, ordination, or credentials. We are also called to have this authority. It is a gift that comes from above. A person with authority exercises control over the lives and welfare of other people. Society cannot operate without having some people in positions of authority; the alternative would be anarchy and chaos. Beloved, let us exercise authority respectfully and honorably. St. John of the Cross whose memorial we celebrate today reminds us that at the evening of life, we shall be judged on our love. Beloved, let us exercise authority in love.
Let us pray
God of power and might, wisdom and justice, through you authority is rightly administered, laws are enacted, and judgment is decreed. Assist with your spirit of counsel and fortitude all those in authority. May they always seek the ways of righteousness, justice and mercy. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
