Daily Gospel Reflection for December 13, 2021

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Emily Davis

Today's Gospel: Matthew 21:23-27

Years ago, I read an account of this scripture, where the writer said, “some people ask questions, [but] not because they want to learn.” The chief priests and elders thought they were smarter than Jesus. They thought he was uttering blasphemy on the occasions He claimed to be the resurrection or the implied that He was God. Jesus taught on the Sabbath, He flipped tables, and He acted like he was in charge. And they hated Him for it. These people thought they were the ultimate authority and Jesus continued to show them He was Who He was.

Jesus knew that when the chief priests and elders asked Him "what authority have you for acting like this? And who gave you this authority?" that they were trying to exert power over him. And then, our Lord showed them who was in charge. He took their power by asking a question they’d never answer correctly. He said,“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. Where was John’s baptism from? Was it of heavenly or of human origin?” 

In that moment, they were faced with a choice. Do we choose the safe answer or the right answer? We know how it turned out.

But what about today? In this passage is a lesson to emanate Jesus’ calling to give the right answer, lovingly and with fervor. It is not always easy, especially in the face of persecution and fear. Yet we must remain focused on the Cross.

Our walk on earth is not always easy, but let us ensure by our faithful actions that we are always aligned with Christ. Let us throw away fear of boldly speaking up for Christ, no matter our personal cost.

Ponder:

When faced with questions that as Christians we know there is a clear and right answer to, how many times are we tempted to give the answer that is safe for our comfort but not for our souls?

Pray:

Dear Lord, let me always be the kind of Christian to answer the question the way You have taught me. Not the safe way that society wants, but to tell Your truth! In Your name, I pray. Amen.

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Copyright 2021 Emily Davis

Emily Davis is -- Catholic. Texan. Wife. Mama. Grandma. Crafter. Volunteer. Friend. Teacher. Writer. Faith Influencer. In 2018, Emily’s husband moved the family to Europe in support of the Navy/DoD and it’s been quite an adventure. Emily volunteers for both the Catholic community and military community overseas. Her blog is Our Home, Mary’s Mantle.