September 27, 2018

Gospel: Lk 9:7-9
King Herod heard of all this, and did not know what to think, for people said, “This is John, raised from the dead.” Others believed that Elijah, or one of the ancient prophets, had come back to life. As for Herod, he said, “I had John beheaded. Who is this man, about whom I hear such wonders?” And he was anxious to see him.

Reflections
He was anxious to see him. Herod’s desire to see Jesus was driven curiosity, fear and anxiety. To see Jesus is to be inspired by his words and deeds. His way is caring and healing presence. Herod’s method of eliminating and silencing enemies was the exact opposite of Jesus‘ message of loving enemies and promoting non-violence. The way to meet Jesus is to have the eyes of faith that can see in the person of Jesus the presence and power of God. Let us ask to see Jesus today, a seeing that leads to a total acceptance of his way of life and following him all the way, through the cross, and seeing the power of his way of truth-telling and non-violence as the way forward in bringing a new world of justice and peace. Herod’s way is a dead-end.

© Copyright Bible Diary 2018