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Commentary of the Gospell
Most people want others to like and respect them. We seek approval and fear losing face in front of friends and colleagues. On the one hand, the desire for approval may encourage us to behave selflessly or to refrain from some bad actions. On the other hand, it can also lead to dangerous behavior or extravagant promises that can hurt others. That’s what Herod does on today’s Gospel. Herod knew that John the Baptist was good and holy. Herod was strangely attracted to John’s message, but Herod liked the approval of his wife and courtiers even more.
How can we resist the temptation to betray our values in search of acceptance or approval? The answer is in the reading from the Letter to the Hebrews. We can rely on the mutual love of our brothers and sisters in Christ whose love does not depend on our status. We can rest in God who will not abandon us since Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.