and that is why miraculous powers are at work in John.” Herod had, in fact, ordered that
John be arrested, bound in chains and put in prison, because of Herodias, the wife of his
brother Philip. For John had said to Herod, “It is not right for you to have her as your wife.”
Herod wanted to kill him but he did not dare, because he feared the people, who regarded
John as a prophet. On Herod’s birthday the daughter of Herodias danced among the
guests; she so delighted Herod that he promised under oath to give her anything she
asked for. The girl, following the advice of her mother, said, “Give me the head of John
the Baptist, here, on a dish.” The king was very displeased, but because he had made
his promise under oath, in the presence of his guests, he ordered it to be given to her.
So he had John beheaded in prison, and his head brought on a dish and given to the
girl. The girl then took it to her mother. Then John’s disciples came, took his body and
buried it. Then they went and told Jesus.
Reflect
Today’s first reading describes the beautiful custom of the Jubilee Year. Drawing its
inspiration from the Sabbath, the Jubilee occurred after seven cycles of seven years.
The people of Israel took a year to rest and re-set. In the Jubilee Year, the people
limited their work to that necessary for survival. The land was allowed to lay fallow
to restore fertility. Land was restored to its ancestral owners. Slaves were set free,
and debts were forgiven.
Though we no longer observe the Jubilee Year, its practice is still very instructive
for us. Jubilee focuses on rest and reminds us of the need to step back from our
own busyness to enjoy family, friends, and the beauty of creation. It also reminds
us that the things of this world are temporary. Our land, possessions, and money
are not things that can bring us lasting joy. They may bring temporary pleasure,
but as they did in the Jubilee Year, they will pass away. Only God and the love
we share remain.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2023