Blessed are the Merciful
For they shall obtain mercyLuke 9:7-9
Today’s gospel is a very short reflection on Herod the tetrarch. He speaks of wanting to “see” Jesus because he was hearing so much about him. But in reality, Herod was afraid Jesus was coming to take Herod’s place as the ruler of the Jews. Much was known through prophesy, about the coming of the Messiah. And the Jews knew the time was pivotal for Him to arrive. However, they were expecting a ruler like David, who would lead his people into victory over their human oppressors. They were not looking for a Messiah who would lead them in battle over their spiritual oppressors in order to win eternal life.
Herod’s fears were purely selfish. He was afraid of losing his political standing.
Today, let us take a moment to pray for our politicians. They are under great pressure to please many diverse people. In reality, they have only to follow God’s Law.