Do Not Be Afraid To Tell The Truth

The voice that speaks the truth may disappear but the word of God remains the same.

Jeremiah 26:11-16, 24
Matthew 14:1-12

The dedicated and heroic life of John the Baptist ended with the almost ludicrous actions of King Herod.  Herod was a petty ruler, the pawn of a unscrupulous wife; he allowed himself to become enraptured by the party-dancing of Herodias’ daughter.  So taken up by the party, the people present, and the dancing of his daughter, Herod publicly promised her anything – even swearing regarding his intentions!  The ultimate outcome:  John the Baptist was murdered per the request of Herodias relayed through her daughter, beheaded as the party ended.  John’s heroic life tragically ended as a victim of humanness, weakness, and sinfulness.

Jeremiah criticizes the failures of the leaders of his time because they refused to follow God’s commands, arrogantly ignore the needy, and oppressed the poor. They turned to the worship of false idols to secure their power. For this, they wanted Jeremiah to disappear. John the Baptist was beheaded for the sake of truth. He critizes the decision of Herod.
We are called by God to be prophets – to speak the truth, to lead lives that follow His teachings, and live lives that lead others to Christ. Jeremiah, John and Jesus gave up their lives for the truth. Are we making that kind of commitment to our faith? Are we, like John and Jesus, ready to commit ourselves to that type of sacrifice? 

Today’s reading also speaks volumes to us about integrity and the social pressures that become present in certain situations. How many times have we made decisions because of the pressures of others, or tried to defend what is right when you are surrounded by people who disagree? Do you act as John and lead a life of integrity, doing what is right despite the pressures around you? Or are you Herod, one who gives in to his whims with no regard for right or wrong? 

May God make us prophets of our times in order to speak the truth whether it is challenging or not. May He give us the strength to always do the right thing, and to turn to Jesus for his guidance.

Piece be with you.

Fr. Joseph

Credit:
This article is written by Rev Fr. Joseph Osho OSJ. Please visit his personal blog @ https://www.blogger.com/profile/10377666931103644634
For juicier articles.