For Jesus’ name had become known.

Mark 6:13-16, And they cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them. King Herod heard of it, for Jesus’ name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” But others said, “He is Elijah.” And others said, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.”

The disciples were sent out with authority by Jesus and many came to know about him. They formed opinions in their own minds to explain what was happening; even Herod adopted the idea, perhaps to assuage his own conscience, that John the Baptist was resurrected. How easy it is to adopt our own ideas about who Jesus is instead of coming to him who says “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” And when we believe in him, asking by faith, he promises his good gifts to us, the ultimate gift of his Holy Spirit!

We claim your promise, that we come to you by faith and ask for the gift of your Holy Spirit; fill us to overflowing today, O Lord!

ESV Lectionary