The Martyrdom of John the Baptist

The annual Memorial of the Martyrdom of John the Baptist always brings images of Salome, her infamous "dance of the seven veils" and the treacherous revenge of Herodias, King Herod's unlawful wife who suggested the head of John the Baptist on a platter as the fulfillment of Herod's braggadocio promise of half his kingdom as a reward for Salome's dance. Behind this gruesome tale is the persistence of John, who lashed out at the adulterous and incestuous relationship, not fearing the ramifications it would have on him. At first he was imprisoned in the palace dungeon and then came the sword. Herodias thought she had silenced him forever, but two thousand years later the story is still told and the message holds true. God's laws must be obeyed and spokespersons for God, prophets, parents, teachers, must persist in promoting the truth, even if they have to pay for thier message with their lives.
St. Paul later wrote to Timothy, "I charge you in the presence of God and of Chrfistg Jesus, who will judge the living and tghe dead, and by his appearing and his kingly power: proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and preaching." (2Tim 4:1-2) And he wrote to the Ephesians, "Take no part in the fruitless works of darkness; rather expose them." (Eph 5:11). As we prepare our hearts and minds for the new school year, these "charges" are reminders to us that persistence, repetition, and strength as well as patience and compassion must be our benchmarks as we guide the young into the ways of Gospel Truth. St. John the Baptist, be on our side. Amen
Bro. Rene