3RD MONDAY HOMILY OF ADVENT — YEAR A

3RD MONDAY HOMILY OF ADVENT — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: BY WHAT AUTHORITY?*
BY: Bishop Gerald M Musa
Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines authority as “the power to influence or command thought, opinion, and behavior.” Jesus exercised authority, and the chief priests and elders questioned the source of his authority. They doubted his power to forgive sins and accused him of blasphemy (Matthew 9:3). They also marveled at how he taught with great authority (Mark 1:22).
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After he drove businesspeople out of the temple, the scribes and elders asked, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” (Matthew 21:23). Their question was a trap. If Jesus claimed divine authority, they would accuse him of blasphemy. If he said his authority came from a renowned teacher, they would question the validity of his claim. Jesus responded with a counter-question, challenging their willingness to answer truthfully.
In another scripture, Jesus revealed the source of his authority: “Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works” (John 14:10). Jesus accomplished great things because he submitted totally to God’s authority.
As we prepare for Christmas, we should pause and ask: Whose authority influences us the most in life?
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