“If we say, ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say,
‘Then why did you not believe him?’”

Mark 11:31

Mark 11:27-33

Reflection

While in the temple area, the scribes, elders, and chief priests ask Jesus who gave him authority. He replies that he will only answer their question if they can tell him if John’s baptism was of human or heavenly origin. They realize they cannot answer either way without being caught, and so simply say they do not know. Jesus then declines to answer their original question.

The chief priests and elders are attempting to trick Jesus in some manner, but their plan ends up backfiring. They are unable to answer Jesus’ question about John’s baptism, because they know both answers will compromise their standing among the people. They are afraid to speak the truth, even though they know it.

Many people today are also afraid to answer questions of faith honestly in their own hearts. It can be easy to brush over what lies in our own hearts, pretending that our faith is stronger than it is or ignoring needed areas of improvement. In all this, we are deceiving ourselves, especially if Christ has opened our eyes to a particular subject and we refuse to truly acknowledge what he is trying to tell us.

Jesus wants us to be open and honest with him and ourselves. We do this by truly reflecting interiorly and owning up to sin and ways in which we can improve. Although sometimes a painful process, the outcome will lead us to greater holiness and close relationship with God. How is Jesus calling you to be truthful to yourself and him?

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Saint of the Day

St. Joan of Arc: 1412 – 1431

“I rely upon God, my Creator, for everything. I love Him with all my heart.” St. Joan of Arc