Gospel

Mt 14:1-12

Herod the tetrarch heard of the reputation of Jesus and said to his servants, “This man is John the Baptist. He has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him.”

Now Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison

on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, for John had said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” Although he wanted to kill him, he feared the people, for they regarded him as a prophet. But at a birthday celebration for Herod, the daughter of Herodias performed a dance before the guests and delighted Herod so much that he swore to give her whatever she might ask for. Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests who were present, he ordered that it be given, and he l had John beheaded in the prison His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. His disciples came and took away the corpse and buried him; and they went and told Jesus.

Sermon

My brothers and sisters in Christ, today’s Gospel reading reminds us that speaking truth to power comes with a cost. John the Baptist's courageous stand against Herod's adultery ultimately leads to his tragic demise.

May we be inspired by John's example, standing firm in our convictions and speaking truth to power, even in the face of adversity. May we also recognize the dangers of unchecked power and desire, and may we always seek to follow God's will, rather than our own selfish desires.

May John's martyrdom not be in vain, but may it inspire us to live with courage and conviction, following Jesus Christ, the ultimate truth-teller.

Prayer

Let us pray: 

+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Almighty, loving and merciful God,

Help us to stand firm in our convictions, like John the Baptist, and speak truth to power, even in the face of adversity. Give us the courage to denounce evil and promote righteousness, even if it comes at a great cost.

Protect us from the dangers of unchecked power and desire, and may we always seek to follow your will, rather than our own selfish desires.

Remind us of the fleeting nature of human life and the importance of living with purpose and conviction.

May John's martyrdom inspire us to live with courage and conviction, following Jesus Christ, the ultimate truth-teller.

In Jesus' most holy name we pray, Amen.

+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ