There are some wild stories in the bible. No real surprise there – since the bible tells the story of God’s journey with God’s people, it is reasonable to expect sometimes they found their ways into some outlandish situations and circumstances. This week we hear that John the Baptist was put to death by Herod because his wife was angry that John had criticized their marriage. It is a troubling and graphic story from the 6th chapter of Mark’s gospel that would need a trigger warning on social media.
Herod is king of the area. Actually, he’s really a sub-king who rules on behalf of the Romans. In an attempt to solidify his power and his claim to the throne, Herod married Herodias who had been married to his brother Philip. John condemns this marriage which leads to John’s arrest. Herodias wants to execute John, but Herod protects John out of fear because John is righteous and holy. Herod also enjoys listening to him. On Herod’s birthday, his wife’s daughter (also named Herodias) dances for the kind and his guests – she entertains them so well, the king offers her any reward she wants (showing off his power and wealth for the guests). The mother coaches her and the daughter asks for John’s head on a silver platter. Herod is “deeply grieved” but does not want to back out of the promise in front of the guests. John is executed and the grisly proof of his death is brought to the daughter.
At first, we may wonder what this awful story is doing here in Mark’s gospel. It does help move the narrative along to hear what became of John (who was so important to the start of Jesus’ ministry). Even more, this story provides a glimpse into Herod’s reign and reminds us of the important ways God’s reign is likely to be different. Herod is concerned with his own power, saving face in front of guest, showing the daughter how he can exercise considerable power over powerless people at a whim. Herod’s reign is about his power, his self-interest, and his position. God’s reign is very different. God is concerned with the struggles of the people, their need for healing and forgiveness, and how God’s compassion can transform their sorrow and struggles into hope and new life.
Through the gospel stories where Jesus teaches, preaches, heals, casts out demons, over and over again, he encounters the people where they are, compassionately changing their brokenness into wholeness and new beginnings. As we look for leadership models in our own lives and in the world around us, may we be guided by the compassion of God, the commitment of Jesus to make the lives of the people better and more whole, and the persistent ways God loves us all.
Peace,