AUTHORITY

[1]Social psychologist Stanley Milgram once investigated the human tendency to obey authority. Subjects of the experiment were instructed to give electrical shocks to individuals who gave incorrect test answers, allegedly to determine if they learned better when punished. Surprisingly, a substantial majority of the participants continued to obey the researcher’s commands to continue with the shocks (that were actually not real) even when they realized they might be doing severe harm to the other person. The authority of the researcher overrode their own objections.

What gives authority its power? In today’s Gospel Jesus commands unclean spirits with authority, and Paul, formally known as Saul, the persecutor to the early church. Which means there is hope for all of us. But his teaching to the Thessalonians carries the same authority. What gives them such authority? When we look at the Latin roots of the word “authority” signify “originator” or “author.” Thus, we can see both Jesus and Paul have authority because their teachings are grounded in their knowledge of God, who is the “originator” and “author” of all life.[2]

We link authority to credibility: This person, in authority, knows what they’re talking about; they are someone in a position of authority, so we can obey them without fear of error. Most of us, were raised to obey authority figures. Although, at times, we feel the urge to resist or to question legitimate authority, sometimes even the most obedient people are led astray. This is why we must “stay alert and sober.” (1 Thes 5:6) Even when we have doubts about God’s authority, it is acceptable to bring these doubts to Him.

“What is there about [Jesus’] word?” (Lk 4:36) He is the Word! His words have authority, because He proves himself to be trustworthy again and again. Here in this Eucharistic mystery. This place, this live event, where our trusting and faithful, Amen, nourishes us to reenter the world to “encourage one another and build one another up” (1 Thes 5:11) “For God did not destine us for wrath, but to gain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ…” (1 Thes 5:9)

This is our charge: especially for those of us in positions of authority, to ground our words and actions in the knowledge of God. To enter into this mystery, simply reflecting on the power and love of the Lord’s self-giving act, where we can be reassured that this is an authority in whom we can trust.

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[1] Scripture (NABRE), Ruth 1:1, 3-6, 14b-16, 22; Matthew 22:34-40

[2] Weekday HomilyHelps. Homily Suggestion by Cecilia Felix.