Psalms: 148, 150

Meditation

Matthew: This is that infamous story highlighting the martyrdom of John the baptizer, whom Jesus referred to as, the greatest of men. John was not a “nice” guy. He “spoke truth to power”, as they say, which landed him in jail. (There is something we can learn from that!) John excoriated Herod, the ruler, that in marrying Herodotus, his brother Philip’s wife, he, Herod, was in serious violation of Jewish law. However reluctant or hesitant Herod was, he senselessly handed John over to the executioner. 

Gospel: 

Matthew 14:1-12

New Testament:

1 Corinthians 2:6-16

Old Testament:

Hosea 13:4-14