Today, we commemorate the martyrdom of John the Baptist. The liturgy of the word focuses on two distinctive values of a prophet, that is, courage and truth. Right from birth until death, John the Baptist was seen as a man of tremendous courage and boldness. His martyrdom proved his courage and fearlessness to challenge Herod’s unlawful marriage. Where did John obtain such courage to speak out against injustice and malpractice of his time?
Undoubtedly, having complete trust in the Lord, as we read in Jeremiah 1:17 “Have no fear of them and in their presence I will make you fearless” is the source of all strength to act appropriately and prudently. In today’s time, we encounter many Herods and Herodias who know what is right but still choose the wrong path because it is pleasurable and easy.
By our baptismal promises, we are called to bear witness to the truth of the Gospel and the exemplary life of the saints and prophets. In our own capacity we are invited to play the role of a prophet by acquiring the competence to see the loopholes in our family, friends, community and society and the courage to challenge just as John the Baptist did.
We also need to realize that courage is not only pointing out others’ mistakes but at the same time accepting own weaknesses when corrections are made to us. May we have the courage to say no to sins and yes to God’s love through the intercession of John the Baptist.
Gilderious Khonglah csc Readings: Jer 1:17-19; Mk 6:17-29 The word of God today asks us to be courageous, just like the prophets of olden days. In the first reading, God asks us to be prepared for facing challenging situations by relying on God’s grace. Just like John the Baptist in…
Newton Basumatari csc - Readings: Jer 1: 17-19; Mk 6: 17-29 I believe that when we listen to God and follow his statutes, he will never abandon us. However, at times we feel that God has abandoned us, especially when we face problems and challenges in our lives, when our…
Sarbin Soreng csc - Readings: Jer 1: 17-19; Jn 6: 17- 29 Today, we commemorate the Passion of St. John the Baptist. In today’s gospel, we witness the consequences that come with power and the challenge of standing for the truth. John the Baptist was steadfast, unwavering like a tree…
Gilderious Khonglah csc Readings: Jer 1:17-19; Mk 6:17-29 The word of God today asks us to be courageous, just like the prophets of olden days. In the first reading, God asks us to be prepared for facing challenging situations by relying on God’s grace. Just like John the Baptist in…
Newton Basumatari csc - Readings: Jer 1: 17-19; Mk 6: 17-29 I believe that when we listen to God and follow his statutes, he will never abandon us. However, at times we feel that God has abandoned us, especially when we face problems and challenges in our lives, when our…
Sarbin Soreng csc - Readings: Jer 1: 17-19; Jn 6: 17- 29 Today, we commemorate the Passion of St. John the Baptist. In today’s gospel, we witness the consequences that come with power and the challenge of standing for the truth. John the Baptist was steadfast, unwavering like a tree…
