July 20, 2023
Passage Read: Mark 5-6
Meditation Verses: 6:19-21
Thought
John was arrested by Herod and protected by him from his wife who wanted him dead. Herod knew he was a righteous and holy man and liked to listen to him, but couldn't understand him. That in itself is an interesting statement. There are those who are intrigued by truth but cannot understand. How long was John in prison? Did he wonder if he'd ever get out? Did he hope Jesus would become king soon and release him? And then it all came down to a girl's dancing, and his life was ended. He'd been languishing in prison, wondering what would come next, probably fairly well cared for, then out of the blue the executioner comes and it is over. Did he know it was because of a dancing girl? Did he feel like it was such a waste? Did he know it was because of Herodias and her grudge?
Application
It seems like such a pointless way to go, because of a king's foolish oath and a girl's dancing. But it was really because of the grudge that Herod actually protected him from. Once the king was undone by his oaths, John was exposed to death, and it came quickly. There are those who will hold grudges against those of us who speak truth; we still need to speak truth. And because of their anger, we may one day be put to death. I still need to speak truth, even against powerful people. Lord, give me John's courage.