Jeremiah 26:11-16, 24 / Matthew 14:1-12
Some people may have the power and the might to force people to submit to their demands.
They may even push it further to commit injustice and oppression.
In other words, just because they have power and might, they bully others.
In the first reading, the priests and the prophets demanded for the death of Jeremiah because he prophesied against the city.
They would have had it their way, but Jeremiah reminded them that he was sent by the Lord Himself to say all those words.
And finally, Jeremiah gave them this chilling warning:
“But be sure of this, that if you put me to death, you will be bringing innocent blood on yourselves, on this city and on its citizens, since the Lord has truly sent me to you to say all these words in your hearing.
That statement woke up the city officials and all the people, and they believed in Jeremiah.
In the gospel, when Herod heard about the reputation of Jesus, he said, “This is John the Baptist himself; he had risen from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.”
Herod shed innocent blood by beheading him at the request of the daughter of Herodias.
That shedding of innocent blood haunted him and the shadow of John the Baptist hung over him.
The two readings remind us to always do what is true, right and good.
We are also reminded not to commit injustice and oppression when we are in a position of authority.
We must remember that any power or authority is given to us by God so that we will always do what is right and just.