Sirach speaks of David's great deeds and then quickly turns our attention to God: "the Lord forgave him his sins." From the perspective of faith, hope and love, God's act of forgiving surpasses in greatness any deed of David. "The Lord has done great things for me", Mary sang in the Magnificat and, when we reflect on great human deeds, this must always be our perspective.

Herod was greatly disturbed when he heard John the Baptist speak and rightly so, for the truth, whether of doctrine or of morality, always calls us to self-reflection and a greater awareness of where we stand before God. David could reflect and repent, but Herod could not reflect and so murdered John. Incapable of reflection, Herod had to bear the fear consequent on his own evil behaviour.

Unreflective reaction to situations and insufficient attention to the consequences will very frequently lead us into Herod's situation.

Let us pray for the ability to reflect wisely on our actions and their possible consequences and learn from Mary to give thanks and praise for all the great things He has done for us.