Being Manipulated – Matthew 14:1-12 Reflection
We are external witnesses to examples of people and groups in the world being manipulated. The appeal of the “dance” across the globe in the form of wealth, drugs, and bodily perfection is staggering. However, we can choose to use our free will instead to practice the dance of true love because Trinity is at the center of our being. To surrender to God’s love can neutralize all earthly desires, heighten righteousness, increase humility, allow spiritual freedom, and willingly accept persecution. Filled with Trinity’s love, we can carry St. John the Baptist’s lasting thought of helping to make way for the Lord into the world.
The Head of Saint John the Baptist on a Charger by James Tissot (full resolution painting).
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 14:1-12 – Scripture*
The Death of John the Baptist
14 At that time Herod the ruler heard reports about Jesus; 2 and he said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he has been raised from the dead, and for this reason these powers are at work in him.” 3 For Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, 4 because John had been telling him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” 5 Though Herod wanted to put him to death, he feared the crowd, because they regarded him as a prophet. 6 But when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and she pleased Herod 7 so much that he promised on oath to grant her whatever she might ask. 8 Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.” 9 The king was grieved, yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he commanded it to be given; 10 he sent and had John beheaded in the prison. 11 The head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, who brought it to her mother. 12 His disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went and told Jesus.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 14:1-12 Reflection – World being manipulated.
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Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite the world’s distractions.
Attributions
This site has written permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible for the Matthew 14 Bible passage.
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