Feast of the Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist

Aug. 29 Feast of the Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist

Gospel Mk 6, 17-29

I must confess that Herod fascinates me.  Here is a man who is thoroughly worldly, completely given over to his pleasures, who values a man’s life less than a woman’s dance.  Yet, he is also someone is enticed by holiness and tempted by truth.  He imprisons John in the darkness of a dungeon, yet the brilliant light of the Baptist shines, attracts and disturbs.  But alas!  Herod is too committed to the worship of the god of this world and he resists the allure of divine goodness.  How many are there who are like him!  How I wish that those of us who have given our allegiance to Christ would sing a siren song drawing all the weary and jaded followers of evil away to Him!  It is He alone who gives a happiness that lasts, a life that is really worth living.  Of course, it is dangerous, for the worldly are half asleep and do not like being awakened.  But there is no adventure if there is no risk.  Perhaps someone will listen after all.