Matthew 14:1-12 tells the sad story of the death of John the Baptist. His loss grieved Jesus tremendously and it was so senseless. No good seemed to come from it - it didn't 'need' to happen to complete God's master plan. But Herodious was angry with the opinion John had publicly shared about her marriage to Herod. John did not approve of the marriage because they had married unlawfully.
As a gift, Herodious' daughter. Salome had danced seductively for Herod and in front of his guests and with an oath, he told her she could have whatever she wanted. The opportunity for revenge was ripe and Herodious prompted Salome to ask for John's head on a platter. Wish granted.
That's my short version of the event. What I saw as I considered the entire setting was a vile woman who was revengeful and controlling. She wanted revenge for the hurt John had caused her and her reputation; she wanted control over future damage to her life and reputation.
Revenge isn't really sweet, and the damage it can do in our lives when we are unable to forgive and take matters into our own hands, hurts us as much or more than those we are attacking.
Control is where this story hits me. That's a very extreme situation of control, but I am certain that I deal with issues of control in my own life. In a fairly normal life in this 21st century, I may stop and notice my attempts to control my family - extended and close. Maybe I am trying to control someone I work with - and control is a complex concept. But mostly I am convicted of trying to control what others think - about me, about my church, about my family members, even about what others think about my God. This story about control reminds me to keep my heart and thoughts focused on Jesus and to not worry about trying to control what others think of me. Or what they think of other people in my life.
There is a hymn that I sing to myself that gets me on track. I have to sing it to myself often because I can be stubborn, but this song softens me quickly and I can let go of the need to control because I am consumed with another focus.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in his wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace
So if you hear me humming, you'll understand!
