How does “On Care for our Common Home” affirm the need for a true world political “#authority“, as envisioned by Benedict XVI and Blessed John XXIII, to address pressing global issues—such as the environment, economic justice, and peace—while also resonating with the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament and the enduring power of prophecy, even if during a homily on today’s Gospel (Matthew 21:23–27) in this third week of Advent, a priest could claim that he does “not know” the name of the prophet who foretold the birth of Jesus❓
When Jesus had come into the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people approached him as he was teaching and said, “By what authority are you doing these things❓ And who gave you this authority❓” Jesus said to them in reply, “I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things. Where was John’s baptism from❓ Was it of heavenly or of human origin❓” They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him❓’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we fear the crowd, for they all regard John as a prophet.” So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” He himself said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.”
This question invites a profound reflection on the interplay between faith, “authority“, and prophetic vision in addressing global challenges. “On Care for Our Common Home” highlights the urgent need for collective, authoritative action to protect the environment and promote justice—an idea that echoes the social teachings of the Church, particularly those of Benedict XVI and Blessed John XXIII. Their call for a “true world political ‘authority‘,” underscores the necessity of global cooperation, guided by ethical principles, to tackle complex crises like economic inequality, ecological degradation, and peace-building.
The reference to the prophetic tradition reminds me of the enduring role of prophecy in calling people back to justice and righteousness. Prophets like Isaiah were often voices of both warning and hope, reminding humanity of its covenantal responsibilities. Even when a priest forgets or neglects the prophet’s name, the power of the prophetic message remains. This highlights how prophecy transcends individual memory or acknowledgment, as its truth is rooted in God’s call for justice and care for all creation.
Points Of Authority [Official HD Music Video] – Linkin Park
Today’s Gospel (Matthew 21:23–27), where Jesus challenges the religious leaders on their “authority“, resonates with this theme. It reminds me that true “authority” is not merely institutional but derives from alignment with God’s will and the courage to live out prophetic truths. Thus, the question challenges me to consider how a global authority might embody these prophetic principles to bring about a just, sustainable world while staying rooted in the moral framework of faith.
“”Authority” should derive from the consent of the governed, not from threat of force!” Jodi Benson – Barbie
Ultimately, this reflection compels me to see myself as a participant in a prophetic mission—one that not only critiques unjust structures but also works actively to transform them for the good of all, while remaining prepared to answer the question:
As Benedict XVI has affirmed in continuity with the social teaching of the Church: “To manage the global economy; to revive economies hit by the crisis; to avoid any deterioration of the present crisis and the greater imbalances that would result; to bring about integral and timely disarmament, food security and peace; to guarantee the protection of the environment and to regulate migration: for all this, there is urgent need of a true world political “authority“, as my predecessor Blessed John XXIII indicated some years ago”.[129]
