May we not be swayed

by Food For Thought on December 16, 2013 ·

At first glance, it may seem that Jesus managed to give a non-reply to the query of the chief priests. There seems to be some debate as to whether John the Baptist’s authority came from heaven or was merely a human act. The teachers of the law found themselves in a quandary.

They couldn’t agree if John’s mission was divine or if he was just another aspiring messiah. They didn’t know which to believe. That’s why Jesus was not obliged to answer them because they couldn’t come to a final answer for themselves.

Sometimes, it’s more convenient to take the stance of the learned. We fail to see the blessings from above. Or we don’t notice the nobility in serving one another. We’d rather not determine for ourselves which is which.

Choosing a final answer means we have to decide. If what Jesus does for us is sourced from heaven itself, we should journey onwards with more hope and fervour in our hearts. If his actions are just of a human nature, how can we not imitate these examples of caring and concern for others? Yes, we are challenged to stand by our answers.

Let us continue to pray for guidance and direction. May we not be swayed to sit on the fence, rather we must believe in the answers we give. As long as we look towards heaven, our earthly service will have a deeper meaning for all of us concerned.

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Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17
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Psalm 25:4-9

Matthew 21:23-27
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THE $64,000 QUESTION

"Jesus answered: 'I too will ask a question. If you answer it for Me, then I will tell you on what authority I do the things I do. What was the origin of John's baptism?' " —Matthew 21:24-25

The religious leaders of Jesus' time refused to accept John the Baptizer's invitation to repent. About three years later, Jesus challenged them. He would not answer their question until they answered His question about John's baptism.

Perhaps three (or thirty-three) Christmases ago, we may have refused the invitation to repent. We thought Jesus would eventually go on to another subject, but He didn't. We can try to change the subject, but it won't do any good. Jesus insists we repent. He does not want us to live in sin and go to hell. He does not want His blood shed in vain.

Repent. Go to Confession. If we don't do it now, Jesus will bring it up again and again, even on our deathbeds. If we answer His question on repentance, then Jesus will answer our questions. We'll experience His authority and power (Mt 21:23). We'll enter a new dimension of faith and life. If we only knew what we were missing by not repenting...

Prayer: Jesus, may I make one of the best confessions of my life in the next few days.

Promise: "A star shall advance from Jacob, and a staff shall rise from Israel." —Nm 24:17

Praise: Anna's doctor said she couldn't have children. She prayed through each pregnancy and has three healthy children.