Gospel: Mark 11:27-33
They were once again in Jerusalem. As Jesus was walking in the temple, the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders came to him and asked, “What authority do you have to
act like this?
Who gave you authority to do the things you do?” Jesus said to them, “I will ask you a question, only one, and if you give me an answer, then I will tell you what authority I have
to act like this.
Was John’s preaching and baptism a work of God, or was it merely something human? Answer me.” And they kept arguing among themselves, “If we answer that
it was a work of God, he will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’” But neither could they answer before the people that the baptism of John was merely something human, for everyone
regarded John as a prophet.
So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know,” and Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you what authority I have to act as I do.”
Reflection
He replied with dignity and wisdom.
In social media, users often encounter a phenomenon known as "bashing." This term refers to criticism directed at individuals who have gained a certain level of influence online.
Such critiques can take many forms and intensities, often causing emotional distress to those targeted. Even Jesus faced criticism during his time. He was accused of various things, most notably the disbelief in his identity as the Messiah that Israel had been awaiting.
Confident in his identity, Jesus knew how to respond to harsh critiques. Rather than reacting with aggression, he replied with dignity and wisdom. We may also encounter our bashers and critics, but today's Gospel provides a valuable example to imitate. We can choose to respond with either aggression or prudence. Let us look to Jesus as our model for handling criticism.