The agitated leaders of the day questioned Jesus' authority because their own authority was undermined by His good works. Is authority endorsed by the power to oppress and exploit? Today, in memorial of St Justin, we could recognize the authority of a martyr. His readiness to face death is a testimony of a formidable faith in Jesus Christ and all His godly work. Such is the authoritative might of a martyr. St Justin's death and apologetic discourse to defend the faith and early Church attest to the fact that the blood of martyrs is the seed of the Church.

Jesus' teaching and healing, good works and John's baptism of repentance are of singular intent, to ascribe all good deeds and wonders to God (Psalm 105:5). Their way of life challenges the superficial adherence to Pharisaic authority and oppressive manner of policing the 613 mitzvot (laws) of the day.

Today, grim tales of human cruelty and sufferings are faced by migrants and refugees. There are moving stories of heroic virtues, sacrifice, generosity and courage despite the horror recounted in the witnessing community. Here, God's hand is at work, God's authority is magnified in the little seed that falls on the ground to spring new lives.