Herod beheaded John the Baptist because he wanted to keep his promise. Similarly, John the Baptist was killed because he had kept his promise. Both of them persisted in keeping their promises, but their fates were different. John the Baptist kept his promise of being the servant of God to proclaim righteousness, urging people to reform their evil behaviour and actions, and to live according to the commandments. He was killed for telling the truth. On the other hand, Herod kept his promise because of self-centredness, so as not to lose face in front of his daughter and guests. He killed innocence because of an immoral desire.

Persistence in keeping a promise is a virtue. As Christians, we have to be faithful in keeping our baptismal vows: to recognize Jesus Christ as our saviour, to preserve justice and to manifest the mercifulness of Our Lord. Our baptismal vows are the guidance of our acts and behaviour.

The prophet Jeremiah was also persecuted to death because of his unwavering proclamation of God's Word. With the help of Ahikam, son of Shaphan, God spared him. Though we may not have to die for Christ, living our baptismal vows faithfully will bring us closer to God.