In the first reading, Paul encourages us in our following of Christ, with the continuing blessings of God.

The Gospel reading speaks of the martyrdom of John the Baptist for standing up for truth and decency against King Herod. In his martyrdom John the Baptist gave witness to the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world.

Jesus had strongly praised John the Baptist: “No one may be found greater than John among those born of women but, I tell you, the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” (Lk 7: 28) John announced the coming of God’s kingdom while followers of Christ have been blessed to enter God’s kingdom. As lovers and followers of Christ, we should be ready to suffer and even to give our lives as his witnesses for truth and justice.