The first reading today is a reminder of the message, “Do unto others; as you would like others to do to you.” The reading also reminds me about the gifts received when we are generous, considerate and hospitable to others. We are reminded to live our lives, not in fear, but rather generously and to find joy and contentment in finding ways to love and serve our fellow human beings. “The Lord is my light and my salvation.” If we trust this statement we can “Let go and let God…” God intends to walk with us on our life’s journey, to be our companion as we discern our callings, make our life’s decisions and chose to live this life, on earth, in a loving, trusting and assured manner. God does intend to “help us” and we are reminded to invite God into our struggles, our decisions, our actions, our happiness, our lives. What a graphic Gospel we have today. It seems almost Barbaric to literally want “the head of John the Baptist” and then to display such a violent act… “Behead him in the prison… and brought in the head on a platter.” I can’t imagine how Herodias could have had such hatred or fear of John the Baptist, that she would influence her daughter to request such violence from Herod. Today’s Gospel refers to John the Baptist as a “righteous and holy man”, a man who suffered being true to his calling and his mission in life. Maybe what we take away from today's Gospel is that it may not be easy or uncomplicated living our authentic life... but that we must. |