We are drowning in information — computers, the internet, and other technological marvels give us the illusion that we are wise. There is a huge difference between intelligence and wisdom. God does not think very much of what we hold up as human wisdom. Our 'wisdom' has made the earth a very difficult place to live in and has been the driving force behind wars, injustices, and heartbreak of all kinds. According to Paul, God decided to expose our wisdom for what it is by revealing divine wisdom through the cross. The cross is something we hate and fear: it is a symbol of weakness, pain, shame, and helplessness. But in the case of Jesus it also signifies surrender to God, self-giving love, and absolute trust in God's goodness and fidelity. Any human claim must be measured with the standard of love, humility, and obedience to God. Let us not envy the ‘wise' and powerful too much.

Emotions and desires often override reason and conscience. This was certainly the case in the tragedy of John the Baptist. It was certainly tragic for John, who lost his life, but even more so for Herod, who lost everything. He was attracted to the teachings of John and liked to listen to him. John's words stirred something in him that was long forgotten: a desire for goodness and justice. Unfortunately, his own lust led him to make a rash promise to the daughter of Herodias his wife. Then his fear of losing face in front of his guests drove him to go through with the execution of John.