Ecclesiasticus 51:17-27
Mark 11:27-33
Two realities emerge from the gospel today. One is the fact that Jesus lived each day in the face of criticism, opposition, and risk and two is the fact that Jesus has authority not only in Himself as God but also in His authority, and has a way of compelling people to respond to Him.
Oftentimes, we take for granted that this same itinerant preaching life of Christ was one surrounded by constant ridicule, challenge, and at times insult.
Like in today’s gospel passage, which actually happened within the Temple precinct, we hear a challenge about the origins of His authority, designed no doubt to elicit a response that might be used against Him, but His answer not only reveals the true origin of His authority but silences His critics.
In a unique fashion, Jesus parallels His own situation with that of John – and the chief priests, scribes and elders find themselves trapped in their own questions and their implications.
Thus, there is an authority born by the very fact that His teaching is accepted and welcomed by all who hunger for new life and good news.
The truth has its own power and Jesus spoke the truth. The truth is revealed by Christ and it is centered on our relationship with God. His truth is ours to follow, let us treasure the wisdom from God.
Fr Joseph Osho
