Prayer:
O Holy Spirit, reveal to me the fullness of Jesus.
Imagination:
Picture Jesus with his disciples.
Context:
This text is sort of an interlude as Herod ponders Jesus’ identity. Later, Peter, by divine revelation will proclaim correctly that Jesus is the Messiah.
Gospel Text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)
Herod the Tetrarch heard of all that Jesus was doing, and he was perplexed. Some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead.” Others, “Elijah has appeared.” Still others say, “One of the prophets of old has risen. But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who is this man about whom I hear all these reports?” He was very curious to see him.
Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)
- Jesus’ miracles do not lead Herod to faith but “to confusion.” His sinful life impeded any true understanding.
- The three preposterous ideas show the great religious confusion which only Jesus can remove.
- Herod is troubled. He cannot forget his murder of John. Jesus’ holiness stirs up these painful memories.
- In the gospels, many people hear reports about Jesus. Usually, this arouses faith and they bring their sick to Jesus.
- In Herod, the reports only stir up curiosity. He wants to see Jesus but not to repent and to believe.
Affections: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- O Jesus, do not let my sins lead me into confusion.
- Quiet my sinful desires. Take away the darkness of my mind.
- I, too, have troubling memories. I come to you for forgiveness.
- I know who you are, Jesus. You died for me and you saved me from everlasting death.
- You are Lord. You are King.
- How I want to see you, to serve you, to love you forever. Come, Lord Jesus.
Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)
+ I will uproot the sinful desires that confuse my heart.
+ I will multiply my desires to see Jesus.
Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)
Herod was perplexed and curious.