Luke 20:1-8 (NRSV)
Jesus' teaching authority
One day, as he was teaching the people in the temple and telling the good news, the chief priests and the scribes came with the elders and said to him, "Tell us, by what authority are you doing these things? Who is it who gave you this authority?" He answered them, "I will also ask you a question, and you tell me: Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin?" They discussed it with one another, saying, "If we say, 'From heaven,' he will say, 'Why did you not believe him?' But if we say, 'Of human origin,' all the people will stone us; for they are convinced that John was a prophet." So they answered that they did not know where it came from. Then Jesus said to them, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things."
Reflection
What a bunch of politicians! Sorry politicians! But instead of taking a stand, the chief priests, scribes and elders backed off of their question. I think God calls us to take stands. A stand causes conversation, correction, in some cases, and unification in other cases.
Jesus took a stand. Jesus had a clear purpose and mission in mind. God has given us, through the Word, a purpose and mission. Go! Spread the news. Make disciples. Live the life God freely gives. Believe and be baptized. We are children of God. Take a stand! Our Father will support or correct, and both in love.
Prayer
Lord, guide me in the "stand" I need to take. --- Amen
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