After reading the entire chapter, pause and read the highlighted verses below for further reflection.
Today‘s focus is on verses Luke 20: 1-8
One day as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple courts and proclaiming the good news, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, together with the elders, came up to him. “Tell us by what authority you are doing these things,” they said. “Who gave you this authority?”
He replied, “I will also ask you a question. Tell me: John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or of human origin?” They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ all the people will stone us, because they are persuaded that John was a prophet.” So they answered, “We don’t know where it was from.”Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”
Meditate
- Jesus is questioned by the religious leaders of the day. It was their role to check on Jesus, who had come into the Temple being hailed as a King and announced the Temple’s destruction. The religious authorities had responsibility to ask questions. Jesus answers a question with a question. He did not get involved in the drama. In what ways have you sought more clarity and answered a question with a question?
- We are reading stories of the chief priests’ and scribes’ rejection of Jesus. In this story, it was not about the authority but more about concern with their position and honor. How can you pay attention to the people with grace and compassion, even if they have ulterior motives while addressing you?
Share
On social media — either Facebook, Twitter or Instagram —share an image and/or your reflections on today’s chapter. Please share only images that you have taken or for which you own the rights. Be sure to include the hashtags #GPUMCAdvent and #Luke20 as we reflect together in community.
Prayer for Reflection
O God, you know our hearts and how we want to follow after you in our words and actions. Help us to have your patience and grace this Advent season with those around us and open us up to where we can spread your good news. Amen.
