Leviticus 25:1, 8-17 / Matthew 14:1-12
One of the fundamental principles of life is that no one is to do anything wrong to his neighbour.
Regardless of whether it is emotional or physical, to do something that is morally wrong or legally wrong is a violation against that principle.
But when that principle is not adhered to, then the social order of life becomes corrupted and people will take things into their own hands without discretion.
The 1st reading reiterates this fundamental principle when God said this: Let none of you wrong his neighbour, but fear your God. I am the Lord your God.
So that principle has a divine origin, and it is always for the good of humanity.
King Herod violated that principle when he arrested John the Baptist for pointing out the wrong he had done.
And often, one violation will be followed by a more serious one.
King Herod gave orders for John the Baptist to be executed just because of some casual promise made to a girl.
In all this, let us remember to observe and adhere to moral principles.
We are not just doing good to others and to ourselves.
We are also witnessing to the goodness of the God whom we believe in.