“Well, I don’t tell you by what authority I do this either.” Matthew 21, 23-27

The chief priests and elders’ question about the origin of Jesus’ authority becomes an opportunity for Him to confront them about their lack of sincerity. Instead of recognizing the value of the life and mission of John the Baptist within the history of salvation, they opt for a diplomatic, evasive response that does not commit them. Jesus, wisely, responds with a refusal that unmasks their attitude. This passage invites us to reflect on our own ambiguities and fears when it comes to clearly assuming the demands of the Gospel: do we respond to what the Gospel asks of us? How do we commit to being bearers of hope for others, as Jesus invites us to be?