Herod jailed John the Baptist because he had warned him not to marry Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. This was the beginning of sinful acts that unfortunately culminated in the death of John. We learn from this event of the need to evaluate our actions to avoid sinning constantly.

The daily examination of our life is needed to keep our life in order. Whenever we find out evil inclinations, we are called to learn to change and return to the way of righteousness. Otherwise, we may end up in the darkness of sin.

Herod tried to cover up his sin by imprisoning John, and, as a result, the sin of impropriety grew into a dramatic murder, ordered by the simple desire for entertainment. Thus, an innocent man's life didn't matter because of his need to please his wife.

In a world that is becoming overly individualistic, we as Christians are called to treat others with love and mercy.

Today is the feast of St Ignatius. He, too, strove to please the top echelon of society. But his narrative changed when a cannonball hit his knee and shattered it. It was the turning point of his life.

This year, the Jesuits and associates worldwide celebrate Ignatius' victory over sin and individualism. We too are called to overcome our individualism and gain our integrity of life by finding God in all things.