Herod feared John.

Mark 6:17-20, For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because he had married her. For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly.

Even though Herod feared John, he apparently feared his guests and his spouse more, for he ended John’s life rather than “break his word” to his wife’s daughter! How easy it is to be fooled into fearing the wrong thing. He knew at some level that John’s admonition was correct, but he refused to take any action. How easy it is to become swept up thinking that this world is the only reality! Jesus urges us to fear not what man can do, but fear God instead, and to turn to him in a time while he may be found.

Give us discernment to see through the deception of the cares and concerns of this world and to turn to you rather than our own feelings!

ESV Lectionary