Tuesday – Passion of John the Baptist

Gospel – Mark 6:17-29

Speak The Truth

Church of John the Baptist, Ein Karem (John’s birthplace)

 

2 quotes from Mark Twain to start the day!

“A lie can travel half way around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes.”

“If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.”

And one from the movie Kingdom of Heaven:

“Be without fear in the face of your enemies. Be brave and upright, that God may love thee. Speak the truth always, even if it leads to your death. Safeguard the helpless and do no wrong; that is your oath.”

John the Baptist does indeed speak the truth but it certainly does not come across as kind.  He is blunt and to the point, telling people what they need to hear, not what they want to hear.  It is a necessary part of his mission to call people back to repentance.  And that is what he is doing with Herod, telling him in no uncertain terms that marrying his brother’s wife is wrong!

Herod seems to be on the other side of the truth, saying only what he thinks people want to hear.  He is interested only in his popularity and his power.  He is a prideful man, only concerned with his image and his reputation.  In the end, even though he seems to be drawn to John’s words, he gives in to his baser temptations and fears and has John beheaded.

We seem to be living in a world where truth is abundant but actually listening and speaking the truth are in short supply. Whether it’s out of fear or pride, we falter at times.  Face it, we are all imperfect beings.  But even today John the Baptist calls us to repentance! 

Life is full of choices.  Some days we do well, like John the Baptist.  Other days, we act poorly and fall victim to our own selfish desires and whims, like Herod.  We are reminded today to not allow ourselves to fall victim to our own passions and greed.  We are called to acknowledge our sins and seek forgiveness.  We are called to seek the truth, speak the truth and live the truth.  We pray today to the Creator for the strength and the grace to follow the Lord who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.

 

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