Deceit

At that time Herod the ruler heard reports about Jesus; and he said to his servants, "This is John the Baptist; he has been raised from the dead, and for this reason these powers are at work in him." For Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because John had been telling him, "It is not lawful for you to have her." Though Herod wanted to put him to death, he feared the crowd, because they regarded him as a prophet. But when Herod's birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and she pleased Herod so much that he promised on oath to grant her whatever she might ask. Prompted by her mother, she said, "Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter." The king was grieved, yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he commanded it to be given; he sent and had John beheaded in the prison. The head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, who brought it to her mother. His disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went and told Jesus. Matthew 14:1-12

Gracious and loving Creator you live among us

and see the ways we are selfish and cunning

using beauty and talent to deceive others

covering our shameful deeds with misdirection.

You see us as we truly are, bare and unveiled

our secrets are not hidden, our lies not known

our selfish endeavors and manipulations

only bring tears to your eyes and sadness.

You made us all for love and to live truth

fashioned us as vessels of peace and kindness

made us in your holy image and love us still

despite all of our cruel and mean behaviors.

Precious Lord, help us to reform our ways

remove deceit and deception from our hearts

make us the instruments of love and hope

that the world so desperately needs this day. Amen.