A promise.
Herod knows John is a righteous man. Herod wants John silent but alive. Herodias wants John silenced forever. She gets her wish. Herod makes a rash promise that not only costs John his life but brings guilt to Herod. So don’t make rash promises. Don’t be too quick to say what you will do. These words are true, but that isn’t the point. Herod is arrogant and prideful. The promise comes from flaws in his life not out of strength. Herod’s pride allows him to make a promise that creates great emotional and spiritual upheaval. When we make promises based on our flaws the result may well be catastrophic. It’s Matthew that tells us that when Jesus heard about John’s death, he withdraws for a time. But almost immediately he sees people who were hurting and Jesus had compassion on them. The pride of Herod is contrasted with the compassion of Jesus. Herod follows through on a prideful promise. Jesus follows through on a merciful mission. We are struck by the obvious difference. But more than that we are drawn to the one who shows compassion so much more than the one who is powerful. Our world endorses power. Jesus shows strength through mercy. Let’s be like Him.