Daily Readings - Tue Aug 29 2017
Jeremiah
17But you, dress yourself for work; arise, and say to them everything that I command you. Do not be dismayed by them, lest I dismay you before them.18And I, behold, I make you this day a fortified city, an iron pillar, and bronze walls, against the whole land, against the kings of Judah, its officials, its priests, and the people of the land.19They will fight against you, but they shall not prevail against you, for I am with you, declares the LORD, to deliver you."
Mark
17For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her.18For John had been saying to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife."19And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not,20for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly.21But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his nobles and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee.22For when Herodias's daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests. And the king said to the girl, "Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it to you."23And he vowed to her, "Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom."24And she went out and said to her mother, "For what should I ask?" And she said, "The head of John the Baptist."25And she came in immediately with haste to the king and asked, saying, "I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter."26And the king was exceedingly sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her.27And immediately the king sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. He went and beheaded him in the prison28and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother.29When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that invite us to reflect on courage, integrity, and the call to stand firm in our faith. The first reading from Jeremiah describes the prophet's commission by God, where he is instructed to speak without fear, assured of divine strength. Jeremiah is likened to a fortified city, emphasizing God's unwavering support. This passage underscores the theme of trust in God's providence, even when facing adversity.
The Gospel from Mark presents a stark contrast with the story of John the Baptist's martyrdom. John's unwavering commitment to truth leads to his demise at the hands of Herod, who is swayed by the deceit of Herodias. This narrative highlights the consequences of speaking truth to power and the moral courage required to uphold righteousness, even in the face of death.
Both readings remind us that our faith calls us to stand up for what is right, regardless of the challenges we may face. In our daily lives, we are often tempted to compromise our values for comfort or convenience. However, the examples of Jeremiah and John the Baptist teach us the importance of integrity and trust in God's presence. Let us draw strength from these stories, embracing the courage to live out our faith with authenticity and moral conviction.