Our big word today is “Authority”. In the first reading, we heard about God’s plan to raise a spiritual leader like Moses whose teaching will carry the same authority like that of Moses. In the gospel St. Mark tells us that the people were amazed because Jesus taught with authority.

But what does it mean precisely to say that Jesus taught with authority? The common explanation is to contrast Jesus’ method of teaching with that of the Scribes. Biblical scholars say that the Scribes taught citing past Rabbis to give credibility to their teaching. Jesus on the other hand taught as one who knows the mind of God. But I tell you, there is more to the idea about Jesus teaching with authority.

It is very exciting to get to experience different cultures. It gives you a sense of balance. One of the very interesting thing I have noticed living in the US for the last three years is how very affirming you guys are. Americans find it very easy to express their feelings towards you. Not just here in the Church, even in the soccer field people walk up to me and tell me how much they appreciate or love me. It’s just an amazing way to help people appreciate their self-worth.