Scripture
Matthew 14: 1-12
At that time Herod the ruler heard reports about Jesus; and he said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he has been raised from the dead, and for this reason these powers are at work in him.” For Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because John had been telling him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” Though Herod wanted to put him to death, he feared the crowd, because they regarded him as a prophet.
But when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and she pleased Herod so much that he promised on oath to grant her whatever she might ask. Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.” The king was grieved, yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he commanded it to be given; he sent and had John beheaded in the prison. The head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, who brought it to her mother. His disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went and told Jesus.
New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.
Ignatian Reflection
Caring for the Messenger
His disciples came and took away the corpse
and buried him; and they went and told Jesus.
This particular Gospel passage has always painted a very strange scene for me. When granted one wish, this mother and daughter ask for someone to be beheaded. Very disturbing! Yet, this last line of the passage is what stayed with me when I read it this time. Jesus’ disciples cared for the body of John the Baptist. That is, they cared for the messenger.
How important is the messenger? We are all called to deliver the message of Christ. John the Baptist did so with great peril. Many were threatened by him, but he also brought great hope to many as well. No matter what, the message of the Gospel will always be challenging, will always ruffle some feathers; it will always make some uncomfortable. Jesus warned us of this reality.
But we cannot give up hope. We must persevere in faith, knowing that there is no greater message than the Gospel message of Jesus Christ…a message of faith, hope and love. Amen.
—Ed DeVenney is the Director of Campus Ministry at Saint Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio. He and his wife, Colleen are very proud of their two sons, Brendan and Daniel, who both work in Catholic education. Ed and Colleen live in northeast Ohio with their dog, Spencer.
Ignatian Prayer
Aug 1, 2026
Prayer
Lord, you call us to spread the Good News, even when it may be difficult. Give us the strength to persevere as your messengers, knowing that the truth of your message is needed by all. Amen.
—Jesuit Prayer team
The Daily Examen is a prayer technique developed by St. Ignatius to help us reflect on the events of the day to discern God's presence and direction. When Ignatius founded the Society of Jesus, he required the Jesuits to practice the Examen twice daily—at noon and at the end of the day. It's a habit that Jesuits, and many other Christians, practice to this day.
The Examen structure presented below is adapted from a technique described by Ignatius Loyola in his Spiritual Exercises. Click here for more information from our partners in ministry at Loyola Press.
Daily Examen
1. Become aware of God's presence
God, I believe that at this moment I am in your presence and you are loving me.
2. Review the day with gratitude
God, you know my needs better than I know them. Give me your light and your help to see how you have been with me, both yesterday and today.
3. Pay attention to your emotions
God, help me to be grateful for the moments when people have affirmed me and challenged me. Help me to see how I have responded, and whether I have been kind to others and open to growth.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it
God, forgive me for when I have not done my best or have failed to treat others well. Encourage me, guide me, and continue to bless me.
5. Look toward tomorrow
As I look to the remainder of this day, make me aware that you are with me. Show me how to be the person you want me to be.
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