Refreshingly Honest

Scripture – Mark 6:14-20: ¹⁴King Herod heard about this, for Jesus’ name had become well known. Some were saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.” ¹⁵Others said, “He is Elijah.” And still others claimed, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago.” ¹⁶But when Herod heard this, he said, “John, the man I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!” ¹⁷For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married. ¹⁸For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” ¹⁹So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to, ²⁰because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him.

Reflection: It’s intriguing that Herod liked to listen to John It seems John was saying some pretty pointed things to him. Perhaps Herod’s confusion came because he recognized the truth John was speaking.

A great temptation for people in power is to surround themselves with people who agree with them. Consider President Bush, for example. It’s pretty clear he doesn’t appreciate people who disagree with him. And our country is poorer because of that. Yet I find it refreshing, though not always enjoyable, when people challenge me with different points of view.

I will speak as honestly as I can today. And I will accept other perspectives as gifts given to help me grow.

Lord, give me courage and humility. Teach me to speak clearly, honestly and boldly. At the same time, remind me to hear and appreciate other points of view. In all of those dialogues, may your truth prevail.