Holy Week: Tuesday
“Think Before You Speak”

Yesterday, we read that Jesus entered the Temple and removed anything that took up space to allow those who desired to be closer to God and worship God. The next day, he returned to the Temple to teach- he cleaned house, and then he entered his house. The chief priests and the elders of the people came to him (I assume quickly.) They questioned by what and whose authority Jesus had to be there teaching. Jesus replied to their question with a question. “I will also ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Did John’s baptism come from heaven, or was it of human origin?” (Matthew 21: 24-25 CSB)

There is nothing like making the chief priests and elders squirm in their uncertainty of how to answer this question. Jesus knew that their response would admit to their faults, or they would be condemned by the people who considered John a prophet. The reaction of these people who believe they have such authority and power over the people… “We don’t know.” They didn’t answer because they didn’t want to encounter consequences. Yet, they asked where Jesus got his authority to teach in the Temple.

Jesus chose not to waste his words on their nonsense. How often do we respond quickly to situations that come in an accusatory way or one that challenges our character? Do you stop and ask God to give you the words to respond, or do you sputter like the high priests?

Prayer

Lord our Savior, we often speak quicker than we listen. We can find ourselves wanting to respond in a defensive way when we are challenged. But, as we pray Psalm 19, may the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart be acceptable to you. Help us to conform to the way of Jesus and not waste words, but to speak what honors God. Amen.