Saint of the day August 29, 2025

On August 29, the Church remembers the martyrdom of St. John the Baptist, who died around A.D. 30.

Biblical accounts report that John was the son of St. Elizabeth and the nephew of Our Lady, making him the cousin of Jesus. Although King Herod recognized John as a holy man and enjoyed listening to him, he did not follow his words. John's popularity was growing, and he had a lot of influence over the people. This worried Herod. Instead of having him killed, he put him in prison.

The Gospels report that Herod imprisoned John because he condemned Herod’s actions: divorcing his wife and unlawfully marrying his brother’s wife. During a celebration for Herod’s birthday, his new wife’s daughter danced for the king and his guests. Her dance pleased Herod so much that, in his drunken condition, he promised to grant her anything she wanted, even up to half of his kingdom. When she consulted her mother, she was advised to ask for the head of John the Baptist on a platter. Though horrified by the request, Herod reluctantly agreed and ordered John’s execution. John was beheaded in prison, and his head was presented on a platter to Herod’s daughter.

St. John the Baptist spoke the truth and called for real repentance and obedience to God's ways. He not only preached his message, but he lived it by being a living example, fasting in the desert, and preparing the way for Jesus. John's bravery in denouncing the immoral behaviors of his time ultimately led to his death.

John's lifestyle, as strange as it may have seemed, can be an inspiration for us. By embracing God's ways, seeking prayer in solitude, repenting, and fasting, we can become a light for others. We can prepare the way for Jesus to enter and transform the lives of those around us.

Some of his inspiring words were those he said of his cousin Jesus that «He must increase; I must decrease» (John 3:30). This sentiment can be ours as well, that we allow our Lord to work with and through us in our daily lives!

Reflection

As we honor this man so highly honored by our Lord, we also honor our Lord Himself. John’s life was given to the mission to which he was called. He never wavered and willingly accepted even death, rather than shy away from God’s will. He introduced the Lamb of God to the world and led the way for Jesus by his preaching, baptism of repentance, and death, which prefigured Jesus’ own death. As you ponder Saint John’s life, reflect especially upon the wholehearted commitment he made to selflessly give himself to the mission he received. Where you see hesitancy in your own life, take inspiration from Saint John the Baptist, praying that you will exemplify his courage and resolve to fulfill the will of God.