By Aldo Brandon Vibi csc –
Readings: Num 24: 2-7, 15-17; Mt 21: 23-27
Everyone is respected according to their life. In the gospel, chief priests and elders questioned Jesus’ authority as he was teaching in the temple. Instead of answering them, he placed John the Baptist before them. He and Jesus were brought up in the same circumstances. One is the divine origin, and the other is human.
Both gained respect from people. The chief priests and elders demanded and gained people’s attention. They did not have the moral authority to lead people to God. This pandemic situation places such a challenge on all of us. How do we become authoritative persons? In the world, everyone is under someone.
Children are under the care of parents; students are taught by teachers. How many of us are ready to extend a hand of solidarity to the needy? Those who have nothing but divine providence receive authority from God.
The life of John the Baptist conveys this message to me. Jesus, instead of answering to chief priests, asked them, “Did the baptism of John come from heaven or human origin?” Rom 13:3 says “For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but bad. Do you wish to have no fear of authority then do good?” Those who do good are subjected to God. He guards their authority and grants wisdom to prosper in life. We have seen such personalities in our families, in our circle of relatives, schools, and workplaces. This gospel challenges me and you to transform our way of life.