Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man,
and kept him in custody.
When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed,
yet he liked to listen to him.

mark 6:20

Mark 6:14-29

Reflection

Today we read about the death of John the Baptist because Herod fears that Jesus is John raised from the dead. Previously, Herod had John imprisoned for speaking against his “marriage” to his brother’s wife. Eventually, John is beheaded because Herod promises his wife’s daughter anything she asks for. While Herod is sorry to have John killed, he still does it.

Sometimes, we act like Herod. We do things against Christ’s teaching, yet when hearing that teaching, understand the good in it. But when it comes down to upholding that teaching in front of others, we cave and fall into sin.

So many times we recognize the goodness and truth Christ offers us, yet refuse to follow him. Maybe we want to save face, don’t think the sin is that bad, or simply don’t want to put in the extra effort to choose the good. How can we better choose Jesus every time?

Pray to become detached from the world that offers vice instead of virtue. Practice following God’s will in difficult moments and relying on his guidance. Choose Christ daily – his love is better and greater than anything the world can offer you.

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Saint of the Day

St. Moses: died AD 372

St. Moses lived in the desert near Syria and Egypt. Against his will, he became bishop and helped maintain peace between the Romans and Saracens. He is known as the Apostle of the Saracens. St. Moses, pray for us!