THE PASSION OF SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST (MEMORIAL)

Herod . . . had John the Baptist arrested and bound in prison. 

Today’s feast refers to the “passion” of John’s martyrdom. But John certainly displayed another kind of “passion” as well: enthusiastic devotion. His love for God and hunger for Israel to return to righteousness drove him to live an ascetic life in the desert, preaching repentance and baptizing people to prepare them for the coming of the Messiah. John only wanted to point the way to Jesus.

When was the last time you met a similarly passionate person? Maybe he was excited about a new project he was working on. Perhaps she was on fire for a new ministry or volunteer opportunity. Something about them emanated excitement. He radiated joy and enthusiasm. She just couldn’t stop talking about the object of her passion. And it was contagious.

And as happens with anyone with passion, people were drawn to John. Even Herod couldn’t stay away from him. It’s quite revealing that even though John zealously condemned Herod’s actions, Herod kept coming to listen to him—even in the prison of his own palace! John’s passion for the truth, for loving and serving God, was like a magnet drawing the king. That’s what passion does. It attracts other people by its enthusiasm and love.

Jesus wants all his disciples to be passionate, to be bursting with his life. He knows that our own zealous pursuit of him can be a catalyst that draws people to him. So let Jesus set a fire in your heart today. Spend time with him; get to know him better. The more you experience his presence and grace, the more excited you will become about him. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you have done; Jesus is attractive enough to melt—and ignite—every human heart. Let him fill you with his love so that your love will overflow to all the people around you. His light shining through you is the best possible testimony!

“Lord, fill me with passion for you. May my life draw everyone I meet to you.”

1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Psalm 119:97-102
Mark 6:17-29