12/15/2025 (Monday) Today’s Gospel reading: Matthew 21:23-27

23 When Jesus had come into the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people approached him as he was teaching and said, “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?”
24 Jesus said to them in reply, “I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things.
25 Where was John’s baptism from? Was it of heavenly or of human origin?”
They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’
26 But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we fear the crowd, for they all regard John as a prophet.”
27 So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” He himself said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

12/15/2025 (Monday) Today’s Gospel reading: Matthew 21:23-27

Jesus is confronted by religious leaders who question His authority. On the surface, their inquiry seems sincere, but beneath it lies a desire to trap Him, to protect their image, and to maintain control. Instead of answering directly, Jesus turns the question back to them, exposing their motives and inviting them to confront the truth within themselves. Their inability to answer reveals something deeper: when our hearts are not aligned with truth, even simple questions become dangerous.

This passage challenges us to examine the intentions behind our questions, choices, and actions. Do we pursue truth? Or do we pursue image? Do we desire genuine growth? Or are we more focused on preserving appearances?

In today’s world, image often takes priority. People carefully craft what they post online. Leaders sometimes choose popularity over sincerity. Even ordinary individuals feel pressured to look strong, composed, and “put together,” even when struggling inside. But Jesus reminds us that true authority and true strength comes not from outward approval but from integrity.

The religious leaders in the story were afraid to answer because they feared the reaction of the crowd. Their decisions were shaped not by truth but by public opinion. How many times have we done the same? Perhaps we avoided speaking up about something wrong because we feared criticism. Or we hesitated to admit a mistake because we were scared of how people might judge us. Yet freedom comes when we are honest with ourselves, with others, and with God.

There is a modern example of this: imagine a workplace where someone sees unethical behavior. It could be dishonesty in reporting, favoritism, or mistreatment of a colleague. The easy path is silence. But the path of integrity, though risky, brings real peace. When someone chooses what is right over what is convenient, they reflect the courage Jesus displayed.

Another example: in relationships, misunderstandings happen. Many people avoid apologizing even when they know they are wrong, because pride gets in the way. But healing flows when humility opens the door. Imagine a parent who finally admits to their child, “I was too hard on you,” or a friend who says, “I should have listened better.” Such honesty rebuilds trust and strengthens bonds.

Jesus also shows us that we do not need to justify ourselves to those who are not truly seeking the truth. When people question or challenge us with ill intentions, we are not required to play their game. Instead, we can stand firm, respond with wisdom, and remain grounded in who we are.

This passage teaches us the importance of discernment. Not all questions deserve direct answers. Not all confrontations require us to defend ourselves. Sometimes wisdom lies in responding with clarity that exposes intentions, just as Jesus did.

Ultimately, the Gospel reading above invites us to live with integrity even when it is difficult. It challenges us to value truth over image, sincerity over public approval, and courage over fear. When we choose integrity, we stand on solid ground. Our actions carry weight. Our words gain credibility. And our lives reflect the quiet authority that comes from walking in the light of God’s truth.

May we be people who seek truth with open hearts, who act with courage, and who choose the way of integrity in all things.

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