Numbers 26:2-7, 15-17 / Matthew 21:23-27
We know what a dilemma is. It is a perplexing situation in which a choice has to be made between alternatives that are equally undesirable.
Going by that definition, if I may put it simply, it is a choice of the best among the worst.
In today's gospel, that was the situation that the the chief priests and the elders found themselves in.
They challenged Jesus' authority but in turn found themselves being challenged and in a dilemma as to how to answer that question of Jesus.
So they ended up choosing the worst of the worst alternatives with that reply: We do not know. Or in simple terms: No comment.
In the 1st reading, we hear of another dilemma. The pagan prophet Balaam was tasked to curse Israel, but when the Spirit of God came upon him, he faced a dilemma but made the choice to revoke his curse and instead bless Israel.
Whenever we face a dilemma, we think of the worst case scenarios and try to choose the one that will result in the least problems and difficulties.
But when we put the dilemma into the hands of God and ask the Spirit to guide us, then we will see the best case scenarios because we know that in each alternative there is growth and enlightenment.
So whenever we face a dilemma, let us not curse the alternatives that we have to choose.
Rather, let us ask the Lord for His blessings and also ask the Spirit to guide us in making a choice.
Every dilemma is an opportunity to experience the blessing and the guidance of God.