Word to the Wise
Tuesday, August 29, 2017 - Aug. 29 - The Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist
[Jer 1:17-19 or 1 Thess 2:1-8 and Mark 6:17-29]But you, prepare yourself; stand up and tell them all that I command you. [Jeremiah]
AUGUST 29 THE MARTYRDOM OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
Jeremiah is traditionally known as the "reluctant prophet." From the beginning and throughout his book, he shows himself struggling with his role. He hated to bring bad news and often he had to do that. Indeed, his name became a byword for negative speeches - a "jeremiad!" John the Baptist doesn't seem to have had the same reluctance. He was fiery and did not hesitate to confront people of higher authority. When he confronted Herod for marrying Herodias, who was his niece and sister-in-law at the same time, he earned the enmity of the lady. The rest of the story is in today's gospel.
Prophetic figures like Archbishop Romero and others know that their speech is dangerous. When the truth is spoken boldly and directly, enemies form. Nevertheless we need such figures and we can even be one of them if we can find the courage and opportunity. Sometimes it just begins with a local event that causes a reaction in a courageous person: "This isn't right. I'm not going to stand for it. I'm going to speak out." Figures such as Martin Luther King, Jr. confronted an entire nation with a sinful prejudice and he paid with his life.
Prophetic ministry does not have to be dramatic. It can be quiet. It might be a wise word spoken to a friend on the wrong path. It may be just a silent vigil outside an abortion clinic. God promises the presence of the Holy Spirit in this. John the Baptist is a dramatic example. Our example may not be like that, but still influential enough to cause comment. Can we do this? AMEN
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