Daily Word - Who Do You Live To Please? - Luke 9:7-9

Scripture:
Luke 9:7-9 (English Standard Version)
Herod Is Perplexed by Jesus
7(A) Now(B) Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that(C) John had been raised from the dead, 8(D) by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the prophets of old had risen. 9Herod said, "John I beheaded, but who is this about whom I hear such things?" And(E) he sought to see him.
Cross references:
Luke 9:7 : For Luke 9:7-9, Matt 14:1-12; Mark 6:14-29
Luke 9:7 : Luke 3:1, 19; Acts 13:1
Luke 9:7 : Luke 9:19
Luke 9:8 : Luke 9:7
Luke 9:9 : Luke 23:8

Reflection:
Do you court favor with the powerful and the rich? Scripture warns us of such danger (see Proverbs 23:1-2). King Herod had respected and feared John the Baptist as a great prophet and servant of God. John, however did not fear to chastise Herod for his adulterous relationship. Herod, out of impulse and a desire to please his family and friends, had John beheaded. Now his conscience is pricked when he hears that some think that the Baptist has risen. Herod sought to see Jesus more out of curiosity and fear than out of a sincere desire to know God and his word. Whom do you seek to please? God's grace frees us from the tyranny of fear and sin and enables us to reject what is wrong and to choose what is good. Do you allow his grace to fill you with faith and courage to speak what is true and to do what is right?

Prayer For The Day:
Heavenly Father, form in me the likeness of your Son and deepen his life within me that I may be like him in word and deed. Increase my eagerness to do your will and help me to know the saving power of your love.