Daily Prayers

Prayer is Love, I want to Love

Authority Of Jesus

Extract:
Frog or Fake!

The occasion was probably Holy Week, perhaps the Tuesday. Chief Priests, Elders (and Scribes) approached Jesus while he was teaching in the Temple courts. They asked, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?”

By “these things” they were referring to Jesus’ recent works such as preaching, healing the sick, triumphal entry into Jerusalem and cleansing the Temple courts.

When they refused to publically agree John’s authority (his baptism) was from Heaven, Jesus likewise refused to answer their question! (Matthew 21: 23-27)

Thought

The group of Chief Priests, Elders (and Scribes) were trying to trick Jesus, being devious and hoping he would give them a reason to have him arrested.

They knew that if Jesus answered, no authority, he would be humiliated in front of the surrounding crowd. If he said, from Heaven, their trick would have worked and they could accuse him of blasphemy!

John’s baptism and Jesus’ great works were both the power of God.

Reflection

Lord Jesus, forgive me my sins. Guide me away from all devious acts. Open my eyes to the hurt that deceit causes. Amen.

Prayer: Psalm 130

Out of the depths, I cry to you, O Lord,
Lord, hear my voice.
O let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleading.
If you, O Lord, should mark our guilt,
Lord, who would survive?
But with you is found forgiveness;
for this we revere you.
My soul is waiting for the Lord,
I count on his word.
My soul is longing for the Lord,
I count on his word.
My soul is longing for the lord,
more than watchmen for daybreak.
Because with the Lord there is mercy
and fullness of redemption,
Israel indeed he will redeem from all its iniquity.