HEROD’S GUILT
(Haggai 1:1-8; Psalm 149; Luke 9:7-9)
Herod was haunted by the name — Jesus. His guilty conscience after killing John left him restless. “Who is this man?” he asked. (Luke 9:9). Yet it wasn’t faith that drove him; it was fear, curiosity, and guilt. A guilty soul can never find peace! (Isaiah 48:22).
Guilt is a silent killer, it disturbs your sleep, wrecks relationships, and eats away your joy. Herod thought seeing Jesus would heal his torment, but at the trial of Jesus he mocked Him instead. He wanted miracles without repentance, power without conversion, and so he left empty.
Many of us are like Herod. We rush to church, crusades, or “men of God” out of hype, curiosity, or desperation; but not out of sincere hunger for God. We live in fine houses, but our souls are in ruins. Prophet Haggai calls us today: “Rebuild the temple!” rebuild your heart, your prayer life, your faith, your altar before God.
Stop chasing sensations; start seeking salvation. Stop craving miracles; start craving the Miracle Worker. Don’t be a Herod, be a seeker who repents.
PRAYER
Lord, heal our guilty hearts, rebuild Your temple within us, and give us the grace to desire You more than signs. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
