Thursday, 29 August 2024. Readings: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Ps. 145:2-7, Mark 6:17-29
“The king said to the girl, ‘Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it.’ And he solemnly swore to her, ‘Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.’ She asked her mother, ‘What should I ask for?’ She replied, ‘The head of John the baptizer.’” (Mark 6:22-24)
Once upon a time, a popular musician sang: “If you stand for the truth, you will always stand alone.” John the Baptist stood for the truth in a world that was fast losing its moral values, and he found himself standing alone. John the Baptist died defending the institution of marriage. We must pay a price if we dare to speak the truth, especially to those in positions of authority. This brings us to our lessons today:
- First, never be afraid to speak the truth, especially when certain of the facts. By keeping quiet in the face of evil, we partake in the sins of others. It is better to die for telling the truth than to support it with your silence. The greatest disaster of our age is not only the presence of evil but the indifference of those who are supposed to be good.
- In today’s Gospel acclamation, we are reminded of Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12)
- Secondly, do not be an average Christian; strive for perfection. In today’s first reading, St. Paul addressed the Christians in Corinth as persons “called to be saints.” John the Baptist, even in prison, continued to preach the truth to Herod. Speaking the truth entails speaking directly to those involved. If you know I am a bad person, come to me and tell me to my face. Tell me my mouth is smelling, and I will cry, but not forget to brush my teeth next time. Don’t go telling other people about me. Only cowards believe that they can change others by gossiping about them.
- Thirdly, Herod was never at peace after the death of John the Baptist. If I fail to accept correction but begin to fight the mouth that tells me the truth, I have murdered my peace. Silencing the voice does not make the evil you do right. The death of John the Baptist did not legitimise the adulterous union of Herod and Herodias; it only made them murderers. No matter how powerful you become, learn to see things from another’s perspective and accept correction.
- Fourthly, let us learn to practice self-control. Herod was not thinking straight when he promised even half his kingdom to a little girl. What if she had asked for his head? Think before you speak. Be a master of your emotions. In moments of anger, hold it. In moments of excitement, hold it also. Learn the habit of speaking to God and hearing from him before talking. Avoid making promises. Remember, seeking God's guidance in all our actions can bring us peace and clarity.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, increase our courage to proclaim and live out the truth. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. Bible Study: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Ps. 145:2-7, Mark 6:17-29).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu