Real Authority

Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17a; Matthew 21:23-27

During this week, our readings intensify our expectation of the coming of Jesus. The words of the prophets and the stories of the Old Testament promise healing, restoration, peace and prosperity for God’s people. Our gospel readings promise fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. We pray for hearts ready to receive him.

This week the United States will experience something for only the third time in our history: our House of Representatives will impeach our President. One branch of government will use its authority against the highest official of another branch of government because they found that he abused his authority. He denies the accusation.

In today’s gospel reading, we see another conflict over authority.  The priests and elders of the people, who have official authority, question Jesus about the source of his authority.  Who, they ask, gave him his authority?

Jesus does not answer them directly. Instead, he challenges them to look at John the Baptist and the source of his authority. They cannot answer. They do not know.

However, Jesus knows. Like Balaam, the ancient prophet or seer in our first reading, Jesus can only do what God wills. What separated Jesus from the religious leaders of his day and from many leaders today is that his authority was a perfect combination. He received it externally from the Father. He had it as the Son. He shared it with his disciples through the Holy Spirit. He used his authority to serve others and to bring people together. He surrendered his authority and his life on the cross for our salvation.

Jesus, thank you for showing us the meaning and the power of real authority. Help us to learn from your example. —jc