Praying over the readings for today I saw the Gospel where poor John the Baptist looses his head, again. Gruesome story and there are so many gruesome stories in this world today. The Lord shook me out of my norosness and told me to look at the whole story in our readings today and not focus on the fate of John the Baptist.
In our first reading from Sirach, the author recounts the life of David with all his exploits, faults and mostly his love for God. Of David, With his whole being he loved his Maker and daily had his praises sung; He set singers before the altar and by their voices he made sweet melodies, He added beauty to the feasts and solemnized the season of each year So that when the Holy Name was praised…
David loved the Lord and was good at what he did.
David’s reign is established today in the person of Jesus Christ, Our King and Savior. It is an everlasting reign but what of John the Baptist. He wasn’t a king like David but still no less important.
Last Sunday was Confirmation Sunday at the 5pm Mass. It always thrills me to see the hope and faith of the next generation coming to adulthood . They will carry the message to the next generation. The Bishop insisted that we all have gifts and if we invite the Holy Spirit to help those gifts will be fruitful. However he warned everyone that we can refuse the Spirit’s help.
We all have gifts and we all can achieve greatness in God’s eyes. He sent His Spirit on those young people on Sunday and I could see the Spirit working in their parents, the adult choir and everyone in church. I am always humbled by such experiences.
In speaking of John the Baptist, Jesus says( Luke 7:26-28 ) Then what did you go to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom scripture says: ” Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, he will prepare your way before you. I tell you, among those born of women, no one is greater than John; yet the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”
We might be a failure to the world but a success in the Kingdom of God.
Not all of us have talents for song and praise like David. We, don’t all, have talent for sports. Most of us are humble like John the Baptist. Just like John we speak the truth and people do not listen.
As a people we must fight and pray for truth. The world around us may not listen and it can be frustrating. We all have gifts that we can use for God’s glory. We may loose our head in the process but our goal is still the Kingdom of God. The important thing is that we speak truth to evil.
God Bless you always,
Bob Burford
