Posted by The WORD in other words by Frater Kevin James M. Pizarras, SVD – Portugal
Saturday 17th Week in Ordinary Time
Three figures dominates today’s Gospel narrative from Matthew 14:1-12. Yet their contrasting traits points to the path of being a true of believer of Christ in our world today.
John, prophet and precursor of Christ, baptized with water and called people to repentance. His mission was to prepare the way for Jesus (John 1:23). He proclaimed God’s truth boldly, even when it inconvenienced those in power. For this, he paid the ultimate price—his life. John reminds us that fidelity to God’s mission often demands courage and sacrifice.
Herod the tetrarch represents the powerful who manipulate law and authority for selfish ends. Though troubled in conscience, he chose to preserve his image and please others rather than follow truth. His real enemy was not John or Jesus—it was himself. Fear, pride, and insecurity led him to murder the prophet (Mark 6:26–27). Herod shows us how clinging to power and appearances can destroy integrity and soul.
Jesus, the Divine Word, is “the Way, the Truth, and the Life” (John 14:6). He did not come only with mighty deeds but with the love of God made visible. He speaks to us in the depths of our hearts, confronting motives and desires, just as He confronted Herod through John’s witness. Jesus invites us into a relationship of love, truth, and freedom.
Today’s Gospel places a challenge before us: Will we be like John or like Herod?
- To be like John is to witness to truth, even at great cost.
- To be like Herod is to let fear, pride, and selfishness rule our choices.
- To follow Jesus is to embrace love, truth, and life.
May we ask the Lord for the courage of John, the humility to resist Herod’s temptations, and the openness to live fully in Christ. For in the end, the Kingdom belongs to those who choose truth and love over fear and pride.
