July 14, 2018
Mark 6:14-20…“for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him.” vs. 20
Generally we can say that most people share Herod’s feelings about prophets. We know that they speak passionately for justice and that their motives are generally pure. And we like it that, in our country, they have protected first amendment rights and can freely speak out. But sometimes the things they say hit a little close to home. Herod thought John had crossed the line with his critique of Herod’s marriage. It’s true! Sometimes we think prophets are too critical of things that we hold dear, and there are times we’d just like them to keep their mouths shut. Some of us have felt this way about pastors when they adopt a prophetic style in preaching and start messing with our sacred cows! We want to tell them to keep politics out of the pulpit. But Herod just couldn’t keep from listening. He knew in his heart that John was probably right, and his perplexities likely kept him up at night. Occasionally, prophets do get through to us–and sometimes we even change our minds. But most of the time, like Herod, we figure out a way to tune them out or shut them up. But, when the prophet has been speaking the truth, sooner or later, we’re going to hear those accusing words again. God doesn’t go away!
Thought for the Day: A prophet I’d love to tune out!
0 Comments