Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, Priest

Taking the Gospel to Prayer

I like to look at this story as what I would have called in my "theater days", a set up scene. It is included to help us understand why Herod has animosity toward Jesus in later days.

It does have a lesson for us. The story begins with Herod listening to gossip. Then it continues with his killing of John the Baptist as a submission to outside pressure. So can we take our prayer to a sensitive area today? How much are we influenced by others? Culturally? Politically? Work settings? Fashion? Keeping up? Raising our kids? Pursuing education?

We can't escape external influences...but do they have a major impact on our lives that impacts our faith?

Lord Jesus, help me to grow closer to You today.