Today’s Catholic Reflection
Balaam, inspired by the Spirit of God, sees the Israelites gathered in their tribes. He delivers an oracle that praises their beauty and prosperity. He describes their camps as flourishing gardens and mighty cedars. This imagery suggests they will enjoy abundant blessings and strong leadership. Balaam also envisions a future figure from Israel, represented by a star and a staff, hinting at a powerful ruler to come.
In the Gospel, Jesus is questioned by the chief priests and elders authority behind his teachings. Instead of answering them directly, he asks origin of John's baptism. This question creates a dilemma for them. They cannot answer without jeopardizing their influence among the people, so they say they do not know. Because of this, Jesus chooses not to disclose the source of his authority.