Today’s Scripture Readings

Gospel Reading

NRSV

Again they came to Jerusalem. As he was walking in the temple, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders came to him and said, ‘By what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you this authority to do them?’ Jesus said to them, ‘I will ask you one question; answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin? Answer me.’ They argued with one another, ‘If we say, “From heaven”, he will say, “Why then did you not believe him?” But shall we say, “Of human origin”?’—they were afraid of the crowd, for all regarded John as truly a prophet. So they answered Jesus, ‘We do not know.’ And Jesus said to them, ‘Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.’

In today’s Gospel, we see a meeting of two kinds of authority. The chief priests, scribes, and elders question Jesus, but beneath their words lies fear, self-protection, and the need to maintain control. They hesitate to answer truthfully, concerned about how others might respond.

In the daily life of ministry, I have been blessed to witness a different kind of authority, one that grows through vulnerability. In spiritual conversations and pastoral encounters, when people feel safe enough to share their fears, struggles, and stories, something sacred unfolds. When vulnerability meets vulnerability, trust is formed, and relationships are gently nurtured. In those moments, we see how love, not control, creates true connection.

Jesus stands firmly in this deeper authority. He comes not from status or power, but from His communion with the Father. Rooted in truth and love, He does not argue or defend Himself. Instead, with calm wisdom, He asks a question that gently reveals what is in the hearts of those before Him.

This Gospel invites us to reflect on our own lives. At times, we may act from fear or self-protection. Yet we are also called to live from a deeper place, rooted in God’s love, where trust replaces control and truth leads to freedom. True authority is not about power over others, but love that creates space for others to grow.

Where in my life am I being invited to move from fear or self-protection toward greater trust, openness, and love?

Lord Jesus, teach us to live from the authority of love. Free our hearts from fear and guide us to act with humility, truth, and trust in You. Amen.