Reflection upon the daily mass readings for August 29, 2012

Today, we commemorate the martyrdom by beheading of John the Baptist. Today's morning prayer from the Magnificat monthly publication (https://www.magnificat.net/)  used a reading from second timothy which really speaks to how we ought to look at John the Baptist (and even more so Christ) as a role model for the way we speak to the world.   2Tim 4:1-2: "proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.   

The day's mass readings reflect that as well, showing what it means for us.  Jeremiah 1:17-19 , Psalm 71, Mark 6:17-29.  

In the first reading, Jeremiah is charged to stand up "and tell them all I commanded you."  When we're told to stand up there's something to stand up for, or stand up to.  We're called not to coward away from persecution, "be not crushed on their account."   The Lord goes on to reassure Jeremiah that "Kings and princes" will fight him and not prevail because God will deliver him.

In the psalm, we repeat "I will sing your salvation", again, the church through scripture reminds us to sing, proclaim God's word: salvation, the gospel.  We conclude this part of the Liturgy of the word with "I proclaim your wondrous deeds."

Finally, in the gospel, gospel writer Mark tells us the story of John the Baptist's death, including why he died. He was put to death at the order of Herodias.  Herodias was originally the wife of Philip, Herod's brother, but she later married Herod. John spoke out against this marriage saying it wasn't lawful (which it wasn't, for John was a "righteous and holy man").  He was beheaded for exposing the moral iniquity of this unlawful marriage.  He was martyred for truth, justice, and the holy/righteous way.   

We can plainly see that that's what we're all called to. We're called to die to ourselves, proclaiming the word without reservation and without fear, whether it's convenient or inconvenient.  We're not called to tell people what they want to hear, but rather to "tell them all [God] command[ed] [us]".  We're called to unceasingly sing of God's Salvation.  We're called to stand up against immorality and false teachings in our world today, that's how we live out the call of the Lord from today's readings. If you're not being persecuted, you're not doing it right.  

Following along with the liturgy can be so fruitful!  Look at this divine reminder that we so often forget in our comfort.