(This is a reprint of my daily spiritual subscription to one of Kerygma Family's devotional materials. I hope my fellow leaders get inspired and enlightened by this.)
I believe that God’s great gift for persons are also persons who inspire, teach, correct and empower. One person whom I consider as God’s gift in my walk as a priest and as a religious was a Pauline nun, Sr. Lucina Sarmiento. Before she died of cancer, she was one of those considered an authority in the field of Catholic mass media apostolate. It was, however, noteworthy that her being referred to as an “authority” happened even if she claimed she never had any formal education on media apostolate. In the course of one of our light conversations, she even said that there were other nuns in her community who had better training in television, in cinema and other media technology.
Jesus Himself is referred to as a “different authority” compared to the scribes and the Pharisees. These people had formal and arduous training, and many of them even descended from a bloodline of and were ordained to be scribes and Pharisees. Jesus was self-made. Compared to many of them, Jesus was probably half their age.
So where does authority come? Some have authority because of their learning; others possess authority by virtue of their position and office. Some have authority because of relationships or connections with those in power; others are perceived to be an authority because of their practical wisdom and experience. But the strongest authority flows from integrity and uprightness: one that flows from the convergence of one’s words and actions. Others refer to this as credibility. This is marked by a combination of deep qualities — such as passion, authenticity and dedication. This authority is earned, not bought; freely bestowed and recognized by others, not simply claimed for oneself. Fr. Domie Guzman, SSP
Reflection Question:
Reflect on persons whom you consider to be authorities. Why do you see them as authorities?The Bible speaks of three authorities: priests (religious authorities), prophets (moral authorities), kings (political leaders). The renowned Jesuit theologian Karl Rahner says, “Christians have to be, above all, prophets.” In what way can you be a moral leader in your own circle of friends and sphere of influence?
Lord Jesus, may my words and actions be rooted in You, the True Authority of my life.
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