Don’t Just Take His Word

December 15 Monday the Third Week

NEHEMIA 24:2-7, 15-17; MATTHEW 21:23-27

Click here for the complete text of today’s readings.

  

What are you waiting for during Advent?

For clarity about how to live? Motivation? The courage to do what you know?

Balaam prophesied: “A star [light] shall advance from Jacob, and a staff [authority, strength] shall rise from Israel.” People found in Jesus “A new teaching  [light] – with authority! [strength].” He is the Life who gives power to follow the Way of Truth. “He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him” (Mark 1:27).

Do you need light, guidance? Jesus is what you are waiting for. Better: let’s say “who.”

Do you need strength to live by what you already know? Jesus is who you are waiting for.

But you have to interact with him. Challenge him, like the Jewish leaders did in the Gospel. If he challenges you in return, don’t be like them. Answer.

You know he teaches with authority. But you need to understand. So dialogue. Don’t just take his word for it, even though you grant it is true. Argue with him.

That’s called “meditation.” Use the three R’s: Read, Reflect, Respond. That puts you into personal relationship (interaction) with Jesus.

So what are you waiting for?

Accept Jesus as God. But deal with him as human. Get to know him.

Pray (all day):

“Teach me your ways, O Lord.”

Practice:

Take some time every day to discuss Christ’s words with him.

Let him explain things.