Holy Week
And as He was walking in the temple, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders came to Him. And they said to Him, "By what authority are You doing these things? And who gave You this authority to do these things?" Mark 11:27-28
The day before, Jesus had cleansed the Temple, driving out those who bought and sold there. It was His Father’s house, yet they had turned it into a den of thieves. The very leaders who should have been protecting the holiness of God’s house had allowed and profited from the corruption. So, when Jesus returned the next day, they confronted Him: "By what authority are You doing these things?” In other words, “What gives you the right? Who do you think you are?”
It’s easy to read this and shake our heads at the arrogance of the religious leaders. But if we’re honest, there are moments when we ask Jesus the same question. When His truth confronts our pride, our comfort, or our sin, we are tempted to question His authority also. But why do we do this? He always speaks to us in truth and love. He cleanses for own good. Yet we have the audacity to question this?
Jesus didn’t act on impulse that day. Everything He did was guided by His Father’s will. His authority was not taken, it was given. "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” (Matthew 28:18) Jesus speaks truth even when it is unpopular. He does so because He loves us.
Our “busy Tuesdays” can look very different, but the lesson is the same: Jesus has authority over every part of our lives. We have no right to ever question Him! He desires our greatest good. Even though we were corrupt and rebellious, He still loves us and died for us. May we never question His love and truth. Instead, let us praise Him for His great love with which He loves us!
Speak, O God, and I will hear Thee,
Let Thy will be done indeed;
May I undisturbed draw near Thee
While Thou dost Thy people feed.
Here of life the fountain flows,
Here is balm for all our woes.
The Lutheran Hymnal 1:5