Today’s scripture: Luke 9:7-9 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (David Zier):
On the surface of these three verses, Herod seems to be perplexed because people were telling him about Jesus and that Jesus was John the Baptist raised from the dead. Herod must have been thinking, “I killed John the Baptist. Is he really raised? Who is this person?” I can imagine that Herod was curious, but fearful, because of the circumstances around John’s death. It seems like it could have been haunting him, a reminder of what he had done.
(For some background, see Matthew 12:1-12) Herod the ruler had John the Baptist arrested and put into prison because John was telling Herod that he could not have his brother’s wife (Herodias). Herod wanted to have John killed, but he knew the people regarded John as a prophet. On Herod’s birthday, Herod granted Herodias’ daughter whatever she might ask, and it was John the Baptist’s head on a platter. Herod grieved, yet held regard for his oath, and the wish was granted.
Herod’s conscious was awakened hearing about Jesus, because some thought it was a risen John the Baptist. Herod sought to see Jesus more out of curiosity and fear. I wonder what he was thinking. Was it a reminder of the events that lead to John’s death?
Later, this same King Herod does a rerun of this event. He goes with what the people want, granting the death of Jesus. He comes to realize in Jesus’ case that he is also some special prophet; King of the Jews. He could even be the Messiah. Again, Herod doesn’t want to let the people down.
What about us? What happens in our lives when we sin? What is it that haunts me? Am I more concerned about letting others down than pursuing to know God and doing what is right?
Jesus doesn’t ask us to run from it, fear it, or pretend it didn’t happen. Jesus wants us to face it; confess it. Otherwise, how can we learn from our mistakes? Or do we just keep making the same ones over and over like Herod?
Thought for the Day: Whom do you seek to please? God’s grace frees us from fear and sin and enables us to choose what is good. Do you allow God’s grace to fill you with faith and courage to speak what is true and to do what is right?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.