John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so.
Mark 6:18-19
No one enjoys the feeling of being criticized or being told that they are wrong. Especially in a public setting. Conversely, it can be hard to offer criticism (especially in a charitable way) or to point out others' faults if you are worried about how they may feel about you, or how your comments may make them feel. But as a Church, this is a small task we are asked to engage in.
In today’s Gospel, John points out the error in Herod’s marriage to Herodias, not to undermine his authority as Tetrarch or to embarrass him in front of the court, but merely to give him the opportunity and chance at conversion and reconciliation. Herod by no means is the first person John called to conversion, although it may have been his last.
Today let us ask the Lord to give us the humility to see our sins and shortcomings, and the courage to charitably call others to conversion.
How is the Lord calling you to conversion today?
Heavenly Father, gives us the courage and strength to charitable give and receive gentle redirection.
Today’s Reflection is by:
Fr Drew Woodke
Did you know...
Fr. Drew Woodke was born and raised in Brandon, receiving all of his Sacraments at Nativity Catholic Church. He did his undergraduate studies at Franciscan University of Steubenville before entering seminary. He is currently in his second year as a priest serving at St. Timothy’s in Lutz.
