One of the first things parents teach their children is to tell right from wrong. “You don’t hit your brother.” Then, we teach them proper responses when others wrong them. “Biting the kid that took your toy is not ok.” And then, as they grow and mature, we try to teach them to do what is right, even when it comes at a cost.

One must fight against one’s dominant passion. This truth is seen in the action of Herod who sacrificed Saint John Baptist because of his passion. (Saint Peter Julian Eymard, A Thought per Day, 8/29)

Modern man is willing to deny himself for temporal goods, like money, looks, fame, health, power, or even sports. The reward must be visible, attainable, and desirable. Under those conditions, he is willing to make some sacrifices. Yet, he is just trading one temporal good for another. It is an entirely different thing to sacrifice for the sake of God.

Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:10)

To do what is right, we must first recognize what is true. Yet, that is not enough.

I am the way, and the truth, and the life. (John 14:6) … Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. (Mark 8:34)

Today’s Gospel begins with “Herod’s Opinion of Jesus.” Herod recognized that the same spirit at work in John was at work in Jesus. He recognized the power of the Spirit, just like the devils recognized Jesus.

Do we recognize Jesus? Do we recognize him in the Eucharist? Do we recognize him in our neighbor? Do we recognize him in ourselves? If so, what are we willing to do next?

Let us pray:

Lord, help me to know your will, and then give me the courage to follow you. Amen.