Sept. 24, 2026

Gospel Reflection:  The "Good" Life

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Thursday of the Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings for Today

Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”; others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him. Luke 9:7–9

Something peculiar happens when those who refuse to live according to God’s will witness His presence in the lives of others—they become unsettled, even confused. Herod was one of these souls. Though Jewish by name, he lived a life of self-indulgence, pride, and moral compromise. Upon hearing of Jesus and His mighty works, Herod’s fascination was mingled with inner disturbance. His conscience was especially agitated by guilt over his execution of John the Baptist.

Herod’s perplexity did not arise from a sincere openness to faith, but from fear, guilt, and superstition. Sin had so darkened his heart that he could not perceive the grace of God manifest in Christ. The Gospel tells us that despite Herod’s interior turmoil, “he kept trying to see Him.” This desire reveals a divided soul—one curious about the truth, yet unwilling to embrace it.

Herod offers us not an example of virtue, but a warning. Those who resist the will of God may still catch glimpses of Him through the holiness of others. But without repentance, such encounters bring neither peace nor clarity. In Herod’s case, his fascination resulted first in torment, then in silence. When Jesus finally stood before Herod during the Passion, our Lord did not utter a word. That silence was a judgment upon his hardened heart.

Looking at Herod’s life, many might have envied him. He was rich, powerful, dined in luxury, lived in magnificent palaces, and enjoyed the protection of Rome. Though such monarchs are rare today, the allure of worldly wealth and fame remains strong. The modern equivalents—the celebrities, influencers, and elite—draw millions of admirers. Social media exalts their lifestyles, while the world glorifies indulgence, comfort, and social prestige.

But to what end? Is it to enjoy life in the moment, seizing every earthly pleasure? What happens when this life ends and we stand before the Judgment Seat of God? At that hour, every fleeting comfort will vanish, and we will be left with the state of our soul. Herod’s worldly success was ultimately empty. He lacked peace in this life, and, without conversion, his eternal fate was sealed in that same unrest.

Herod’s life is depicted in the Gospels for a reason. From his example, we must lift the veil of worldly and sensory indulgence and see them for what they are—not only in light of their eternal consequences, but also the interior ruin they cause even now. Such a life has no power to save, no ability to satisfy beyond the moment, and always leaves the soul perplexed and curious—a curiosity that ends in confusion.

Those whose hearts are fixed on such indulgence will always hunger for more and never be satisfied. The best way to avoid the lure of sinful indulgence is to immerse ourselves in the purifying truths of the Gospel. Truth both purifies and liberates. It frees the soul to become the temple of God it was created to be—radiant with holiness, living in joyful union with Him and in spiritual communion with others. Nothing could be greater in this life, and nothing else will satisfy in the next.

Reflect today on any lingering confusion, fear, or disordered curiosity you may carry when encountering Christ in your life. Do you approach Him like Herod—curious but uncommitted—or with a heart that is ready to be purified and transformed? Let the example of Herod lead you away from perplexity and into conversion. Truth Himself stands before you. Do not remain merely curious. Surrender in faith, and the riches of God’s Kingdom will be yours.

Lord of true riches, the power, wealth, and fleshly indulgences of this world are seductive. Please lift the veil from my eyes, so that I may see clearly the emptiness behind their promises. Free me from every deception, and draw my heart to desire only You. May Your Kingdom be my constant aim where freedom is found and the riches of grace and eternal happiness await. Jesus, I trust in You.

Audio recording: https://youtu.be/KM67si9Ynx4?si=ZDy7RfSBoXQRgMgC