Reflection on the Gospel of the Saturday In The Eight Week Of Ordinary Time |
Mark 11: 27-33 |
Jesus throughout his mission preached the good news with full authority, being empowered by God who anointed Him through the Baptismal actions John the Baptist. As per Zechariah 9: 9 “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” Jesus fame had spread far & wide, therefore people rejoiced at the coming of Jesus in Jerusalem. The Pharisees and scribes became uncomfortable and jealous at Jesus’ fame which came because of all the sign and wonders He was doing, and also because he was instructing people (people) authoritatively, in simple words, with clarity and free. If all the people went to Jesus, their offices of High Priest and Teachers (scribes), would be null. So to discredit Jesus, they came to coming of Jesus and raised the question on Jesus’ authority. Jesus answered them, but with a question. He reveals that John the Baptist was the one who commissioned Him, but he also was asking them about their feelings about John the Baptist.
Through sin the entire world was under the authority of evil, Jesus by his death and resurrection redeemed the world from slavery to sin and thus overcoming the world. Jesus authority was from the heavenly Father, and Paul confesses as such when he says, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Jesus gave this same authority to his apostles and through our baptism we too have received the same authority. So, in our life whatever work (Professional or Ministry) we do, do it with full authority like Jesus and bring deliverance to people those who are under the control of evil. To grow in our spiritual life sometimes it is good to raise questions and seek answers to our thoughts, views, doubts etc which will lead us to successful paths. Similarly when we are questioned by any one on our work we should answer them boldly and courageously without any hesitation or confusion.
Each of us are called to mission, so let’s focus on there and respect others in God’s vineyard and bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. May the grace of God be with you all.
