Friday February 7th: Confrontation between Fear and Truth

John’s courage encourages us to stand for truth even when it is inconvenient or dangerous.

Mark 6:14-29

Today’s gospel is the tragic account of the martyrdom of John the Baptist. At the heart of the event is a confrontation between fear and truth as seen in the actions of three key figures, Herod, Herodias, and John the Baptist.

Herod is torn. He admires John, recognizing him as “a righteous and holy man,” and enjoys listening to him, even though John’s words disturb his conscience. Yet Herod’s weakness is his inability to stand for the truth. When his authority and reputation are threatened, he chooses pride and fear over justice.

Herodias despises John because he speaks the truth about her unlawful marriage to Herod. She is blinded by bitterness, and it leads her to plot John’s death. Herodias shows us the danger of refusing to address our sin and injustice.

John the Baptist stands as a beacon of integrity. He speaks the truth, even at great personal risk, and ultimately pays with his life. John’s courage encourages us to stand for truth even when it is inconvenient or dangerous.