A reading from the gospel according to Saint Mark 11:27-33

27 They arrived once again in Jerusalem. As Jesus was walking in the Temple, the chief priests, the teachers of the Law, and the elders came to him
28 and asked him, “What right have you to do these things? Who gave you this right?”
29 Jesus answered them, “I will ask you just one question, and if you give me an answer, I will tell you what right I have to do these things.
30 Tell me, where did John’s right to baptize come from: was it from God or from human beings?”
31 They started to argue among themselves: “What shall we say? If we answer, ‘From God,’ he will say, ‘Why, then, did you not believe John?’
32 But if we say, ‘From human beings… ‘ ” (They were afraid of the people, because everyone was convinced that John had been a prophet.)
33 So their answer to Jesus was, “We don’t know.” Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you, then, by what right I do these things.”

Reflection: Mark 11:27-33

The gospel reading above tells us a moment when Jesus was in Jerusalem, walking through the temple courts and confronted by the chief priests, teachers of the law, and elders. They question His authority, asking, “By what authority are you doing these things?” and “Who gave you authority to do this?”

Jesus responds with a question of His own, asking them about the origin of John’s baptism, whether it was from heaven or from men. This puts the religious leaders in a difficult position. If they acknowledge it was from heaven, they would be admitting their failure to believe John. But if they say it was from men, they fear the people who regarded John as a prophet. Ultimately, they answer, “We don’t know,” and Jesus replies, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”

This passage teaches us several profound lessons about authority, wisdom, and the courage to stand firm in our faith.

First, it highlights Jesus’ divine authority. The religious leaders were threatened by Jesus because His authority did not come from traditional sources, but directly from God. This reminds us that true authority and power come from God alone. In our lives, we may encounter challenges and opposition, but we must remember that if our actions are aligned with God’s will, we are backed by His ultimate authority.

Second, Jesus’ response to the religious leaders teaches us the importance of wisdom. He did not fall into their trap but instead posed a question that exposed their own inconsistencies and fears. This shows us the value of discernment and thoughtful responses, especially when facing criticism or difficult questions. It encourages us to seek wisdom from God in our interactions and decisions.

Lastly, this passage underscores the need for courage. The religious leaders were afraid to take a stand because they feared the people’s reaction. In contrast, Jesus boldly stood His ground, knowing His mission and purpose. This challenges us to have the courage to stand up for our faith and convictions, even when it is uncomfortable or risky. Our confidence should come from knowing that we are fulfilling God’s will and purpose for our lives.

In our daily walk, let us draw inspiration from Jesus’ example in this passage. Let us embrace His authority in our lives, seek His wisdom in our decisions, and stand courageously in our faith. When we do, we not only honor God but also become beacons of His truth and love in a world that desperately needs it. May we always remember that with God’s authority, wisdom, and courage, we can face any challenge and fulfill the purpose He has set before us.

*****

While some of the people of Israel accepted the authority of Jesus as the Christ, the anointed Son of God who was sent to save the world, the religious leaders rejected Him and tried to discredit His authority. Until today, we can see the same scene being played out. Yet no matter what these oppositionists do, Jesus Christ continue to reign over the world with authority as Lord of lords and King of kings.

The question of the chief priests, the teachers of the Law, and the elders about the right or authority of Jesus has already been answered previously. Yet these Jewish religious leaders feign ignorance to hide their hypocrisy. Jesus knew their thoughts – that they were just looking for ways to trap Him and kill Him. So Jesus refused to play their game. Many times silence is just a powerful answer to a useless argument.

May the gospel reading above remind us of the purity of our thoughts and motivations. Do we truly accept Jesus and submit to His authority as Lord and king in our lives? Or are we like the biblical religious leaders who rejected Jesus and who sought ways to kill Him by our hardness of hearts?