1st Week of Advent (B) : Saturday 9th December 2023

Authority is often associated with arbitrary power because many misuse it to compel others to obey and submit. Religious leaders are not exempt from this, as Jesus observed in today’s Gospel.

In the thick of fulfilling His mission of preaching, teaching and healing, He shows them how power can and should only be used for the good when exercised with rightful authority.

In His travels to towns and villages, He saw with His eyes and heart. He was deeply moved because their leaders abused their powers to lead their flock astray. They were behaving more like wolves than genuine shepherds.

Clearly the crowds were urgently in need of healing and redemption. It was the ‘kairos’ moment – that appropriate and favourable time to proclaim the kingdom of heaven to them. However, prayers and supplications must always precede action. So, He asked His disciples to pray that God would send them helpers.

The fruitful exercise of power in authority requires true discernment to see, pray and act so He inducts His disciples into the same vocation as His. He issues specific instructions on the disciplines of discipleship: where to go, whom to visit, and what to say and do, for great power comes with great responsibility.

Jesus continues His saving mission, with the  co-workers in His vineyard. And we walk humbly with Him, act justly and show mercy without counting the cost.

Lord Jesus, teach us what to do and where to tend.