Herod the Tetrarch was the son of Herod the Great, who was king when Jesus was born. The text tells us that this Herod had great respect for John, as he would also have for Jesus later on. The problem arose because John denounced Herod for taking Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. At that time, Herod was concerned about his security and promotion in the Roman Empire and that clouded his thinking. Under the prompting of the mother, Herodias' daughter makes the gruesome request for John's head on a dish. Herod was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths in front of all the guests, he did not wish to break his word to her. John was beheaded, and the head given to the mother. Herod loses and attacks what he knew he should love.

This tragedy teaches us to be sincere and never imprison the voice of God in our soul, but to let it reign in our life. We must use our freedom to respond to God's voice, breaking the chains of human respect or fear of sacrifice that bind us to darkness. John is the precursor of Jesus, not only in announcing the coming of Jesus, but also in giving his life for the integrity of his beliefs and in bringing God's message to the people. We are called to do the same. Preparing the way for Jesus and His message must become an integral part of every Christian's life.