The Last Word

      We’ve all said it or thought it in various ways and contexts.  It may not come out exactly like this, but we think, “I got the last word on that one!”  Whether it is winning a petty argument or something quite important, it feels good to get the last word.  Sometimes, it may be necessary to “get the last word” because a vital point needs to be made for another’s benefit.  Sometimes, we just like to be right.  But who would ever hope that someone else has the last word on something, especially something important in our lives and even our final destiny?

Jesus has harsh words in Matthew 21:33-46.  They are directed at the chief priest and pharisees.  When it came to Judaism, these folks pretty much had the last word on their religion.  This was seen as the right, expertise and calling.  Jesus comes along with another view on this.  Things get heated.  Jesus declares that he gets the last word on all matters in heaven and on earth.  It is like last week’s text.  When Jesus says ALL authority in heaven and on earth has been given to him, he means exactly that.  For us, the question becomes, “why would be want Jesus to have the last word on all things in our lives and at the end of our lives?”