Reading= Heb 11:32-40 Gospel = Mk 6:14-29

Sanctoral Cycle

St. George Maronite Catholic Church August 29th.

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BEHEADING OF JOHN THE BAPTIZER
Synaxarion for Memorials without a Proper Office:

Beheading of John the Baptizer

Without a doubt we can learn much from the life and death of John the Baptizer. His life was one of penance and he called the people of Israel to repentance, thereby preparing the way for the coming of the Lord. John was not concerned for personal gain, but rather, he desired only that Jesus increase and that he decrease.

His great courage was especially evident in his confrontation with King Herod. The king had entered into an adulterous marriage with his brother's wife and John publically denounced him for his sin. Without regard for his own life he called Herod to repentance (Mark 6:9). He was thrown into jail and was eventually executed in order to appease Herod's wife. Before his death he sent his disciples to Jesus (Luke &;19-20).

John, who declared the truth of God's commandments before Herod was priviledged to point to the incarnate Truth, Jesus Christ, and call the people to follow him. John's death, which we recall today, points to Christ and his death on the cross. John died in fidelity to God's truth. Jesus, who is Way, the Truth and the Life, died to reconcile us to the Father and each other.

May the prayers of John the Baptizer be with us. Amen.