Dangerous Dancing

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

There are always those, in every generation, who are good at getting what they want. Watch any "reality" show and you will see those who have that kind of talent. Wrap that talent up in hate and resentment and dangerous outcomes result. The cruel and selfish too often get their way. John the Baptist lost his head because he told the truth and powerful people did not want to hear it. We are called, in our day and time, to be those who speak the truth and so not manipulate others for power and prestige.

Tender Creator, you shaped us for love

you molded us for compassion and kindness

you teach us your ways of mercy and truth

and have given us abundance and blessings.

We are too often petty and competitive

winning being our focus and our goal

we do not consider the ones who are crushed

we tell ourselves it is a sign of your blessing.

Help us to acknowledge our selfish way

so that we might humbly work for justice

may our days be filled again with your love

and our sights set on being your beloved. Amen.