Daily Scripture, August 29, 2025
Memorial of the Passion of Saint John the Baptist
Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
Mark 6:17-29
Reflection:
Holiness is often perceived as an achievement reserved for Saints, but in his Letter to the Thessalonians, Saint Paul encourages individuals to pursue holiness by “conducting yourselves to please God.” His instructions emphasize interpersonal relationships, specifically regarding choosing a spouse or interacting with others.
Saint John the Baptist preached about the coming of the messiah and addressed Herod Antipas’s marriage to his brother’s wife while his brother was still alive. This interaction may be viewed as an encouragement for Herod to reflect on the standards by which he related to others. When asked by his wife for the “head of John the Baptist,” Herod Antipas, holding authority as a king, did not refuse the request. Refusing could have been seen as humbling or a sign of weakness. Even someone in Herod’s position appeared to feel influenced by those present, possibly considering their opinions or support for either the queen or himself, while others may have chosen not to voice their perspectives.
Holiness is reflected in the way individuals conduct themselves in both personal and professional relationships, as well as in their integrity when unobserved. Saint Paul advised the Thessalonians to evaluate the quality of their interactions with others. The Gospel addresses the courage required to uphold holiness, particularly in challenging circumstances. Holiness involves striving for completeness and seeking a connection with God through our relationships, while also serving as a positive influence that encourages others toward holiness.
“Be holy, because I am holy.” – 1 Peter 1:16
Linda Schork is a theology teacher at Saint Xavier High School in Louisville, Kentucky.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 26:16-19 Matthew 5:43-48 Reflection: To fulfill Jesus’ command to love my enemy, it is critical for me, in prayer, to ask myself the question, "Who or what do » Continue Reading.
Scripture: Esther C:12, 14-16, 23-25 Matthew 7:7-12 Reflection: The readings today are all about prayer- its power, its efficacy, that it really works. The reading from the book of Esther » Continue Reading.
Scripture: Jonah 3:1-10 Luke 11:29-32 Reflection: The prospect of a "miracle" catches the attention of most any human being. Perhaps a physical healing, a financial turn-around, the avoidance of a » Continue Reading.
Scripture: Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18 Matthew 25:31-46 Reflection: When I was in grade school, we were tested and re-tested on our ability to recite the Ten Commandments. Some people proclaim these » Continue Reading.
First Sunday of Lent Scripture: Genesis 2:7-9, 3:1-7 Romans 5:12-19 Matthew 4:1-11 Reflection: Lent: Working on Our Relationship with God Eve saw that the fruit of the tree » Continue Reading.
Saturday after Ash Wednesday Scripture: Isaiah 58:9b-14 Luke 5:27-32 Reflection: One of the messages of today’s Gospel was recently addressed by Pope Francis. "If we don’t feel in need of » Continue Reading.
Scripture: Isaiah 58:1-9a Matthew 9:14-15 Reflection: I have never liked Lent. As a very young child I remember a time of the year (and it seemed to come every year) » Continue Reading.
Thursday after Ash Wednesday Scripture: Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Luke 9:22-25 Reflection: As we read the Gospels, we get a sense that many people followed Jesus. At times these people are described » Continue Reading.
Ash Wednesday Scripture: Joel 2:12-18 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2 Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 Reflection: Last Friday was the title feast of our Passionist Congregation. St. Paul of the Cross proclaimed the Friday » Continue Reading.
Scripture: 1 Peter 1:10-16 Mark 10:28-31 Reflection: God’s Generosity: It’s Real! Today’s Gospel selection follows upon Monday’s selection which featured Jesus dealing with the rich young » Continue Reading.