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Daily Scripture, August 29, 2018

The Passion of Saint John the Baptist

Scripture:

2 Thessalonians 3:6-10, 16-18
Mark 6:17-29

Reflection:

Today we reflect on the Beheading of John the Baptist.  Beheading, a violent form of execution in any age, in the opinion of Herod’s wife was a sure method for silencing the voice of John the Baptist.  John the Baptist spoke truth Herodias did not want to hear.  As I reflect on today’s readings, I wonder how often I don’t want to hear the truth spoken in the Gospel message.

Do I really want to hear the truth spoken regarding peace and the message of non-violence?  Am I comfortable when I hear Jesus speak about riches and their relationship to my participation in the Kingdom of God?  When I truly understand the point regarding forgiveness of those who trespass against me do I cover my ears?  When Jesus says I must “take up the cross and follow Him” do I qualify his statement by trying to define my own cross on my own terms?  When Paul preaches Christ living in me and all creation do I think twice about my share of creation and what I do with my own “footprint” on this earth?

Whatever we say about Herodias and her leap to beheading John the Baptist, I think we have to admit that she was quite sincere and honest about her motive.  I’m not sure I can always say the same about myself.  When I am confronted with the truth of the Gospel, I think I sometimes participate in a “selective beheading”.  I choose which parts of the message to ignore, water down or simply re-frame on my own terms.

Herod traded the truth for a dance by Herodias’ daughter.  Am I trading the truth for convenience, comfort or the avoidance of sacrifice?  Like it or not, we probably all have a little of Herodias’ approach inside our hearts.

Today, I pray that God will give me at least some of the courage and strength of John the Baptist.  I also pray that I will be less selective and will truly begin to listen to the truth in the life and teachings of Jesus.

 

Terry McDevitt, Ph.D. is a member of our Passionist Family who volunteers at the Passionist Assisted Living Community in Louisville, Kentucky.

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