‘Authority’ has had such a bad press in much of the world this year.In the popular mind it is linked with ideas such as ‘elites,’ ‘establishment,’ ‘money’, and ‘power’.
The rise of populism in Europe and in the USA has shocked many in authority, but they still hold power.
In other parts of the world ‘the authorities’ cling onto power by oppression.
Wherever it is ‘the authorities’ are the people who yield power to do what they want without, it would seem, being answerable to anyone.
At Christmas, Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Although born in obscurity he came with great authority.
In the Gospel stories Jesus exercised authority over people, disease and even death. His authority had nothing to do with control, threat or violence but everything to do with freedom, love and peace.
That’s why Jesus is so compelling, with so many followers all over the world.
Those who believe in Jesus, believe in his authority, that he is able to do something. He has the unique authority to heal and change the world.
No wonder we celebrate his coming into the world!
+Ferran