First Reading - Numbers 24:2-7,15-17
Gospel - Matthew 21:23-27
In the first reading from the Book of Numbers, we hear the words of Balaam, a man who did not originally set out to serve God. Yet the Spirit of God comes upon him, and from his lips flows a blessing instead of a curse. Balaam proclaims a vision of beauty, abundance, and hope for Israel, and he speaks of a star rising out of Jacob, a symbol of a future ruler chosen by God. This reminds us that God’s authority is not limited by human plans or expectations. God can speak through anyone, and when He does, His word carries truth and power. What matters is not the status of the messenger, but the source of the message.
In the Gospel, Jesus is questioned by the chief priests and elders about His authority. They want to know who gave Him the right to teach and act as He does. Jesus, however, exposes the real issue: their unwillingness to answer honestly. They are more concerned with protecting their position than with seeking the truth. Their refusal to acknowledge the authority of John the Baptist reveals hearts that are closed, calculating, and afraid of losing control.
Dear friends, these two readings stand in sharp contrast. Balaam allows the Spirit of God to speak through him, even when it goes against expectations. The religious leaders, on the other hand, refuse to recognize God’s work, even when it is clearly before them. One is open and becomes a channel of blessing; the others are closed and remain stuck in uncertainty.
The message for us today is clear and challenging. God continues to speak and act in our lives, often in ways that surprise us. The question is not whether God is at work, but whether we are willing to acknowledge His authority. Sometimes this means letting go of our need to control, to appear right, or to protect our own image. True faith requires honesty, humility, and the courage to say yes to God’s truth.
Today, let us ask ourselves: Are we sincerely seeking God’s will, or are we avoiding it because it may ask something difficult of us? Are we open to God speaking through unexpected people or situations? If we allow the Spirit to lead us, like Balaam, our lives can become a blessing to others. But if we harden our hearts, like the leaders in the Gospel, we risk missing the very presence of God among us.
May we be people who recognize and submit to God’s authority, not with fear, but with trust. And as we do, may our lives proclaim, like the rising star, the hope and light that come from God alone.
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