The Gospel of Mark 6:14-29
King Herod heard of Jesus and his disciples, for Jesus’ name had become known. Some were saying, “John the baptizer has been raised from the dead; and for this reason, these powers are at work in him.” But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.”
For Herod himself had sent men who arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because Herod had married her. For John had been telling Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him, and wanted to kill him. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee. When his daughter Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and 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 went out and said to her mother, “What should I ask for?” She replied, “The head of John the baptizer.” Immediately she rushed back to the king and requested, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her. Immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard with orders to bring John’s head. He went and beheaded him in the prison, brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl. Then the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body, and laid it in a tomb.
Let us Pray: Heavenly Father, as we open Your Word, help us discern the truths embedded in this dramatic passage. Thank You for the clarity, encouragement, and hope Your Word brings. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
As strange as it might seem, there are actually some horror stories in the Bible, and one of the most famous of its horror stories is the story of the death of John the Baptist. It is a shared view that this Gospel lesson is a terrible reading, the beheading of John the Baptist. At the same time, it is also an intriguing story, filled with drama, conflict, conspiracy, and a violent resolution. John condemned Herod’s marriage to Herodias because it went against the Law of Moses. Herodias wanted the intrigue of palace politics and a man whom she could not have lawfully. John’s condemnation upset Herodias so much that she looked for an opportunity to have him killed, and that opportunity came at Herod’s birthday party. Many of the sins we commit today are done in order to save face. How many lies have we told because we are more concerned with looking good in front of others than we are with pleasing God? This passage highlights the tension between power, conscience, and moral compromise. Herod’s weakness, both in his personal life and as a ruler, leads to the tragic outcome. John the Baptist’s unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness stands in stark contrast to Herod’s uncertainty. As we reflect on this story, we’re reminded of the importance of integrity, even when faced with difficult choices. John’s courage to speak truth against power challenges us to examine our own convictions and actions. May we seek righteousness and avoid compromising our values, even in the face of pressure or temptation. John stood for the truth. He followed God faithfully. His death was not the end for him or for the mission of God in the world. John paved the way for Jesus and his death foreshadowed the death of Christ. And it’s because of the death and resurrection of Jesus that we have the hope of eternal life and a message worth dying for. Most of us do not like to say or do hard things. Yet, if we truly consider ourselves followers of Jesus, at times this means we do need to speak the truth we believe even if it is not the popular opinion. Today may we ask Jesus for the courage to speak and act on our beliefs, even if it may upset the other person and to be like John with his courage, honesty and directness. We have a choice, be like John or be like Herod. Will we be weak like Herod, easy tempted and easily manipulated, or will we be strong in our moral convictions like John?
Let Us pray: Dear God guide our steps as you guided John’s. Give us the strength to be as strong and devoted believer as he was. Help us live our lives following in the steps of john and Jesus our Lord. This we pray in your name. Amen
Reflections by Bob 