HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF 21ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME. (2)

HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF 21ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME.

THEME: MARTYRDOM OF JOHN.

BY: FR. GERALD M. MUSA.

As the saying goes, “A single voice armed with truth ca shake even the mightiest of thrones.” John the Baptist said King Herod, “It is not lawful to have your brother’s wif (Mark 6:18). The Jewish law explicity declares, “Thou sha not uncover the nakedness of thy brother’s wife: it is tt brother’s nakedness” (Leviticus 18:16). Therefore, Joh fearlessly rebuked Herod for doing what was considered taboo.

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Consequently, Herodias, the illegal wife of Herod looked fo opportuniies to eliminate John rom the face of the earth. I conscience, Herod feared John, knowing that he was righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. When he hear 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 bidding by beheading John.

Herod represents people, especially leaders, who have no minds of their own and are swayed by the opinions of others. We hearit 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 İs gored. John was no “Teed shaken by the wind” (Luke 7:24). He was killed but his boldness and faithfulness are worthy of emulation. Can we imitate John the Baptist by becoming fearless witnesses of the truth?
MARTYRDOM OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
Jeremiah 1:17-19; Mark 6:17-29; 29th August

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