Reflecting on today's Gospel reading reveals many similarities and verbal contacts between this passion narrative of John the Baptist and that of Jesus (Mk. 14:1-16:8). So John's account pre-figures the passion narrative of Jesus - this makes John truly the forerunner of Jesus.

John denounced evil which cost him his life. This tells us that prophetic ministry threatens evil forces and carries with it many risks even that of being eliminated. As a result, the prophets, in fulfilling their mission, are in conflict with the evil forces.

As Christians we are called to be prophetic. Do we dare to speak for the voiceless in our society, or denoune evil such as corruption or injustices practised in high places in society or do we rather prefer to remain silent about it? Many have lived their lives as authentic disciples of Jesus by speaking against unjust practices experienced in our own society.

Are we afraid? We need not be because of the promise of Jesus and "Jesus Christ is the same today as He was yesterday and He will be forever." (Heb. 13:8).