Today’s Reflection
Gospel: Matthew 21: 23-27
December  15, 2025 | Monday

Today’s Gospel

Jesus had entered the temple and was teaching, when the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the Jewish authorities came to him, and asked, “What authority have you to act like this? Who gave you authority to do all this?” Jesus answered them, “I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, then I will also tell you by what authority I do these things.” Where did John’s baptism come from? From heaven or from people?”  They discussed this among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ And if we say, ‘The baptism of John was merely something human’, we’ve got to beware of the people, for all consider John to be a prophet.” So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

Today’s Reflection

The Gospel passage recounts how Jesus escapes the trap his opponents set up. His opponents question him concerning his authority. Their question is not a curious inquiry but a deliberate attempt to entrap Jesus. They could accuse Him of blasphemy if He claimed His authority was from God. If He denied it, they could discredit Him before the people.

Jesus, aware of their malice, responds with His question about the origin of John the Baptist’s baptism, putting the authorities in a dilemma. Acknowledging John’s baptism as divine would validate Jesus’ ministry, as John had testified about Him. Denying it would incite the wrath of the people who believed John was a prophet. Trapped by their question, they admit that they do not know, to which Jesus retorts that he is not to answer their question either as regards his authority.

Jesus’ response is a profound demonstration of wisdom. He avoids their trap while exposing their hypocrisy. This passage teaches us several critical lessons about navigating and exposing present-day trappings.

Foremost, we learn the importance of discernment and wisdom. Jesus doesn’t respond with anger or defiance but with a question that reveals the true intentions of His opponents. We often face situations where people may try to trap us with words or actions. By seeking God’s wisdom and responding thoughtfully, we can avoid falling into these traps and reveal the truth. Moreover, we see the value of questioning with purpose. Jesus uses a question to turn the situation around. In our daily interactions, asking insightful questions can help us uncover underlying motives and bring clarity. It encourages open dialogue and can prevent misunderstandings or manipulative tactics. Lastly, this passage reminds us to remain rooted in truth. The opponents of Jesus were more concerned with maintaining their power than seeking the truth. Today, we encounter similar trappings— whether in personal relationships, workplace dynamics, or societal pressures. We can navigate these challenges without compromising our values by grounding ourselves in God’s truth and integrity.

/Vulnerasti, 2025