HEROD’S GUILT
Haggai 1:1-8; Psalm 149; Luke 9:7-9
Herod said, “John, I have been beheaded, but who is this of whom I hear such things?” So he sought to see Jesus (Luke 9:9). There is no evidence that Herod had a genuine spiritual interest; rather, the tales and speculations about Jesus puzzled him, especially given his guilt over the murder of John the Baptist.
The scripture says, “There is no peace for the wicked….” (Isaiah 48:22). We must address our guilt through confession and forgiveness. Studies have shown that a guilty conscience brings about emotional distress, insomnia, impaired relationships, decreased self-esteem, and even physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues, and muscle tension.
Eventually, Jesus finally met Herod on the morning of His crucifixion. Herod was in Jerusalem at the time, and when he heard that Pilate was sending Jesus to him, he got happy and excited. Herod wanted Jesus to perform a miracle, but Jesus did not. Herod treated Jesus contemptfully and sent him back to Pilate.
Many people desire to see Jesus but lack sincere spiritual interest. We come to church because of the popular rumours about men of God. Prophet Haggai, in the first reading, reminds us to rebuild the Temple of the Lord and our faith in God. Therefore, as we live in fine and comfortable dwellings, our souls should not suffer eternal discomfort.
LET US PRAY
May the Lord give us grace to overcome our weaknesses and hold on to the values that last forever. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
