Today St  Mark recounts John’s arrest, imprisonment and death—a horrific story that reflects the atrocities human beings continue to commit against one another.

 John’s crime was  that he bluntly told  Herod that marrying Herodias, his brother’s wife, was unlawful. Herodias resented John and wanted him killed, though she lacked the power to do it. Clever and manipulative, she began plotting revenge.

At Herod’s birthday celebration, attended by many honoured guests, Herodias’ daughter performed a dance that delighted Herod and the crowd. Enthralled, Herod promised her anything she wished, even half his kingdom.

 The girl asked her mother what to request, and Herodias replied, “The head of John the Baptist.” She returned and asked Herod for John’s head on a platter. Though distressed, Herod had sworn an oath before his guests and feared losing face, so he felt trapped.

Herod finally ordered John’s beheading, and this  was brought on a platter, given to the girl, and then to her mother.

 

At times, we too find ourselves in a bind, pressured to do what we know is wrong. When that happens, will we have the strength and courage to stand for what is right, or will we give in to please others or protect our image?

Today, may we pray for the strength and courage to do what is right, even when others disapprove. May we share John the Baptist’s integrity and courage, standing firm in faith whatever the cost.

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