Monday of the Third Week of Advent
(Numbers 24:2-17.15-17a; Matthew 21:23-27)
“Dag” Hammarskjöld was a Swedish economist and diplomat who
served as the second General Secretary of the United Nations. After his tragic death over sixty years ago in
a plane crash, a controversy arose regarding his place in history. To many he was like St. Francis– one who confronted
the powers of the world on behalf of the poor while living like a monk. To others he was an activist troublemaker
whose celibacy shielded homosexual practice.
One biography, written about a decade ago, correlated Hammarskjold’s journal
Markings with a factual account of
his life. It strongly asserts the truth
of the first evaluation.
Hammarskjöld’s story reflects the controversy at the heart
of today’s gospel. Jesus is being
harassed because he, in the terms of the late Pope Francis, is a “minister(s)
of mercy above all.” He dialogues with
sinners so that they might appreciate God’s love for them. He champions simple, good hearts who cannot
follow the burdensome rules of the Pharisees.
When the Temple officials question his authority to act in these ways, Jesus
deftly responds. Discerning their devious
intentions, he refuses to reply until they answer his compromising questions. Unwilling to accept a loss of face among the
people, the Jewish leaders temporarily withdraw their harassment.
Jesus has come to us as a pillar of justice. Although he generally respects authority, he
is not afraid to challenge it when necessary for the good of all. During this Advent-Christmas season, we
welcome him as the beacon of justice and the Prince of Peace.
