The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, August 29, 2001
The Twenty-First Week in Ordinary Time
The Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist
Complete story: http://www.christdesert.org/public_texts/martyrology/
Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
1 Thessalonians 2:9-13
Psalm 139:7-12
Mark 6:17-29
Full text: http://www.nccbuscc.org/nab/index.htm
A Reflection on Today's Scripture:
Today the Church celebrates the memorial of the beheading of John the
Baptist. It is a day that recounts the extent that followers of
Christ will go in order to give faithful witness. On the other hand,
it graphically illustrates the effect of sin and what happens when
some one succumbs to the opinions and human respect of others.
John, we know, was single-hearted in his announcement of the need to
repent and prepare the way of the Lord. He didn't care what people
thought of him because He knew their opinions counted for nothing.
Herod we are led to believe had some inkling of what John was all
about - was somewhat "taken" by him and perhaps had even considered
the truth he spoke. Unlike John however he yielded not only to his
own base inclinations, but ignored his own conscience that was
probing him, making him experience some sense of regret over the
decisions he had made.
Instead of admitting he was wrong, he did like so many of us often do
- he muted his conscience preferring instead not to risk losing the
shallow respect of his less-than-admirable friends.
On this sad memorial feast let us pray that through the intercession
of the great Herald of the Lord, we may more faithfully execute our
own role in proclaiming the Good News. May we, like John, not be
silenced even if it means our very lives; and Lord, may the shedding
of the blood of your faithful witness help in the salvation of the
world.
- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds
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