Daily Catholic Lectio
Fri, 7 February ‘25
Fourth Week in Ordinary Time – Friday
Hebrews 13:1-8. Psalm 27. Mark 6:14-29
“This is John!”
Following the passage where Jesus sends His disciples out two by two for their mission, Mark records the execution of John the Baptist. By placing these events back-to-back, Mark emphasizes three key aspects:
(a) The rejection of the apostles’ message – The world does not easily accept the Good News, nor does it welcome those who proclaim it. Throughout history, the message of God’s reign has been met with ridicule, opposition, and resistance.
(b) A foreshadowing of Jesus’ own death – What happened to John the Baptist will also happen to Jesus. The suffering of the righteous is a recurring theme in God’s plan of salvation.
(c) The fate of the apostles – Just like John and Jesus, the disciples will also face persecution and martyrdom for their faith.
What does this event teach us?
This passage reveals a hard truth: Our circumstances often control us in ways we do not expect.
John the Baptist fearlessly confronted King Herod for his sins, particularly for violating the Sixth and Ninth Commandments. His boldness created the very situation that led to his downfall.
John did not act based on practicality, but on truth. His unwavering commitment to righteousness put him in danger, and ultimately, he paid for it with his life.
In today’s world, everyone sees themselves as intelligent, moral, and free. The moment we challenge their beliefs or question their morality, we become their enemies.
John the Baptist placed Herod in a difficult position by publicly calling out his sin. Herodias, seeing an opportunity, used the situation to her advantage and orchestrated John’s execution.
This teaches us that justice and morality often depend on the perspective of those in power. The world’s definition of truth and righteousness is often shaped by who controls the narrative.
A call to courage and love
In today’s first reading, the author of Hebrews urges: “Let brotherly love continue!” This passage reminds the Christian community to remain steadfast in love and courage, even in the face of persecution.
Psalm 27 affirms this: “The Lord is my light; whom shall I fear?” A person who places his or her trust in God’s light will always act with love and boldness, even in difficult situations.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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