Daily Readings - Wed Aug 29 2018
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 stories that call us to reflect on courage, integrity, and the cost of standing up for what is right. The first reading from Jeremiah describes the prophet’s call to speak God’s word boldly, even in the face of opposition. Jeremiah is told to “gird his waist” and not shrink from the challenges ahead, for God promises to be with him and protect him. This passage reminds us that our faith is not a passive belief but an active commitment to living out God’s will, even when it is difficult or unpopular.
The Gospel reading from Mark presents a stark contrast in the story of John the Baptist’s martyrdom. John, like Jeremiah, spoke truth to power, calling Herod to account for his sinful actions. Despite knowing the danger, John remained steadfast in his conviction, and his integrity ultimately cost him his life. This story challenges us to examine our own willingness to stand up for what is right, even when it comes at a personal cost. Herod’s fear of losing face and his willingness to break his oath to please others reveal the destructive power of pride and cowardice.
Both readings invite us to reflect on how we live out our faith in daily life. Like Jeremiah, we are called to be courageous in sharing God’s truth, even when it is uncomfortable. Like John the Baptist, we are reminded that integrity and fidelity to God’s will may lead us to face challenges, but they are the foundation of a life lived with purpose and meaning. Let us ask ourselves: Are we willing to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult? Do we trust in God’s presence and protection as we navigate the trials of life? May we draw strength from these examples and strive to live with the courage and integrity they inspire.