FR. GERALD MUOKA HOMILY FOR THE MEMORIAL OF THE MARTYRDOM OF JOHN THE BAPTIST (1)

FR. GERALD MUOKA HOMILY FOR THE MEMORIAL OF THE MARTYRDOM OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

THEME: A MAN OF COURAGE

BY: FR GERALD M. MUSA

HOMILY FOR MONDAY AUGUST 29 2022

John the Baptist said to Herod, “It is not lawful to have your brother’s wife” (Mark 6:18). The Jewish law says, “Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy brother’s wife: it is thy brother’s nakedness” (Leviticus 18:16). Therefore, John fearlessly rebuked Herod for doing what was considered a taboo. Consequently, Herodias, the illegal wife of Herod looked for opportunities to eliminate John from the face of the earth. In conscience, Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. When he heard him, he was much perplexed; and yet he heard him gladly” (Mark 6:20). Unfortunately, Herod allowed his wife Herodias to drown his conscience when he carried out her biddings by beheading John. Herod represents people, especially leaders, who have no minds of their own and are swayed by the opinions of others. We hear it often said of weak leaders who perform woefully that they were good men and women, but were surrounded by evil forces who advised them wrongly. In contrast, John the Baptist represents people who stand for what they believe and dare to speak what is true no matter whose ox is gored. He was no “reed shaken by the wind” (Luke 7:24). John was killed but his boldness and faithfulness are worthy of emulation. Can we imitate John the Baptist by becoming fearless witnesses of the truth?

JEREMIAH 1:17-19; MARK 6:17-29