Memorial of the Passion of Saint John the Baptist
Scripture:
1 Corinthians 1:1-9
Mark 6:17-29
Reflection:
In the first reading today Saint Paul greetings and gives thanks to the Church in Corinth. He gives his credentials of being called by Christ to be an Apostle “by the will of God.” He affirms the spiritual gifts and the grace that has been given to the Church in Corinth and reminds them that they were called by God to be disciples of Christ. If we continue to read this first letter to the Corinthians, we will soon discover that the Church in Corinth is having a few difficulties. Thus, a letter to Saint Paul to help them iron things out.
In the Gospel, Saint John the Baptist knew that his call was to preach and proclaim the coming of the Messiah. He used his gift of preaching and teaching, putting his life on the line to speak the truth. He confronted Herod Antipas about his marriage to his brother’s wife when his brother was still living. Herod Antipas was a “king” with “power” who could not stand up to the truth when his wife asked for the “head of John the Baptist”. He could not humble himself and say no to her request. He would have appeared to be weak for refusing her request. What would people think of a king not keeping a promise? Even a king of ancient Palestine felt pressure from his guests or what he thought that his guests wanted. Some might have been on the side of the Queen. Some might have stood quietly, afraid to speak out, not wanting to go against the king or queen. Was there anyone there who did not agree with the request of the queen? Even in modern times not many people will step forward to ask questions or make objections when something is off track or unjust.
Both Saint John the Baptist and Saint Paul suffered much because of their refusal to give in to the power of secular leaders and trusted in the power of God. They are like bookends around the life, Passion, death and Resurrection of Christ. Two men who knew what they were called to do and were given grace and the spiritual insight to hold on to Christ. Saint John calling people to “prepare the way” and Saint Paul calling people to follow Jesus. Saint John knew Christ from the womb and Saint Paul on a road to Damascus, had a personal experience of Christ. Each had a call and each answered tapping into grace, and faithfulness.
Do I have enough faith and courage to speak up when I know something is not right, true, or just? Do I have enough faith to speak about my faith to others?
Linda Schork is a theology teacher at Saint Xavier High School in Louisville, Kentucky.