The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests who were present, he ordered that it be given, and he had John beheaded in the prison. // Matthew 14:9-10

My huge fluffy dog Otto owns what he is. He doesn’t jump up when caught napping to pretend like he’s been productive. He shamelessly advocates for himself when hungry or thirsty, especially at 5:01 p.m. when his dinner is one minute late. He bounds along the fenceline barking to protect his territory, regardless of what others might think (or whether that miniature schnauzer is actually a threat). Otto is unapologetically what he was made to be.

Saint John the Baptist exemplifies this in human form. He unapologetically embraced his identity and mission. He didn’t change his actions or dilute God’s truth to save face or slink away from threats. He remained totally free in God’s unconditional love, even through physical imprisonment and death. As a result, Saint John the Baptist gained eternal life and the glory of a martyr’s crown.

King Herod, on the other hand, easily caved to the manipulation of those around him in an attempt to preserve his popularity and power. As a result, he became more enslaved. His power was a sham; his relationships confined to contingent actions and conditional love.

King Herod could learn a lot from Otto and John the Baptist—as can we. 

We all need human connection; we all deeply fear rejection. When those desires and fears become disordered, we begin to seek connection and avoid rejection at the expense of our own and others’ God-given dignity. Trading reason for human regard gradually destroys our conscience and limits our divine gifts. People pleasing never leads to the freedom and love we hope for. We become emotionally enslaved and internally imprisoned by the very isolation we’re trying to avoid. 

Pleasing God, however, comes with an epic reward. The death of desire for worldly regard is the beginning of true freedom. Bold adherence to His truth is the foundation of authentic identity. Seeking God’s regard above human regard delivers the unconditional love and eternal belonging we truly crave.

Today, ask for the courage to unapologetically become who you were created to be. 

Saint John the Baptist, pray for us!