Today’s Readings:
1 Corinthians 1:1-9
Psalm 145:2-7
Mark 6:17-29
Why do we celebrate the beheading of John the Baptist? His death is so tragic that it almost makes a mockery of the spectacle of his birth. Remember when the Blessed Virgin Mary visited Elizabeth and she testified that John (then in-vitro) had leapt for joy? It was only a matter of time before this baby-prophet will manifest his true gift. Jesus testified to John’s majesty when he said, “I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he” (Matthew 11:11; Luke 7:28). We cannot help but wonder, if he was so great, why did he die so miserably at the hands of a naïve girl and her scornful mother?
John captures for us all the lessons we should bear at the back of our mind as gifted persons:
SIGN-POST - John knew that his purpose was to point people to the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).
RESIST PRIDE – John did not promote himself. He pointed his disciples to Christ and chose to decrease while the Lord increases (John 3:30).
HEAVEN FIRST – John knew that no earthly crown comes close to the glory of heaven and he chose right.
RESIST ENVY – Those in the limelight suffer envy just like the rest of us because of their gifts. John the Baptist passed the test and bowed out honourably upon completing his assignment.
DIE HONOURABLY – The Baptist died with honour for speaking the truth. Most of us lack the courage to even acknowledge that we are wrong and others are right.
STEADINESS – The grace of God kept John steady all through his ministry and during his imprisonment. We pray for the same grace that we may not bow to the pressure of trials that are meant to turn us from coals to diamonds.
GOD-GIVEN – Always remember, like the Baptist, that your gifts are given to you by God and meant for service. To abuse your gifts (or talents) mean that you neither acknowledge the Giver nor value the gift.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to use my gifts well.
Lord, give me courage to stand for what I know is right.
Lord, may I never be swallowed up by trials and temptations.
Lord, help me to trust You.
Lord, help me to see that You are working things out for my good.
Lord, fix my eyes on You and on making heaven.
Lord, let nothing ever take me away from You. Amen.
God has blessed you with His gift. May they bring you manifold blessings and lead you to eternal life through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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