17th Week in Ordinary Time (B) : Saturday 3rd August 2024

True politics advocates truthfulness. Speaking truth to power is rarely easy and, sometimes, it is dangerous. Jeremiah the Prophet discovered this when he prophesied against the establishment. His words caused great offence and the religious authorities sought to kill him. The king was surrounded by false prophets – those who told the king and the people what they wanted to hear, rather than the words of God. Is this not resembling fake politicians and spiritual abusers? Even though it is difficult, speaking the truth is what God asks of us.

In these chaotic times, in which there are so many conflicting voices, it is important to be unwaveringly truthful.   St John the Baptist was willing to publicly denounce Herod Antipas for his unjust and scandalous behavior. Herod promptly threw John in prison. But he was drawn to the words of the Baptist – he felt a tug at his heart and mind. If only he had followed this guidance – but it was not to be. He was a weak man, ruled by his physical desires and his craving for approval from those around him. He made a foolish promise and was trapped by his words and his unwillingness to be shamed. He ordered John’s execution – a tragedy for John, but more so for Herod. We need to follow the promptings of our conscience and our deepest self and do what we know is right. The world depends on this.

Lord, give me the courage to speak and live the truth.