Matthew 14:1-12

At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the reports about Jesus, 2 and he said to his attendants, “This is John the Baptist; he has risen from the dead! That is why miraculous powers are at work in him.”3 Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, 4 for John had been saying to him: “It is not lawful for you to have her.” 5 Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people, because they considered John a prophet.  6 On Herod’s birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for the guests and pleased Herod so much 7 that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. 8 Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” 9 The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he ordered that her request be granted 10 and had John beheaded in the prison. 11 His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who carried it to her mother. 12 John’s disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus. - Matthew 14:1-12

Dear Jesus,

What treachery! Your cousin was killed for telling the truth to a man for his own eternal good.  He was killed because that man was a coward.  He was killed because that immoral woman was a hater.  He was killed because he had to decrease while you increased.  It makes my head swim.  Both he and you are my example to speak the truth in love even if it angers people.  They have to know their sin and their need for you.  Help me find courage to stand up for your morals and your exclusive grace even though I live in a country where it's a social sin to call anything but being mean, wrong. Help me keep my head clear and heart willing to help lead lost souls toward you with peaceful but honest confrontation when it is appropriate.  Help us all Lord Jesus!

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

It's not a bad thing to call a bad thing, bad.

Additional Reading: Psalm 119, Proverbs 29:1