The Head

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited us and accomplished redemption for His people." -Luke 1:58

It may seem strange and out of place to observe with thanksgiving the beheading of John the Baptizer as we do this day. The separation of head from body is an experience anyone of reasonable mind and spirit considers horrifying.

But if one is to take seriously the Commandment to have no other gods than the One true God (which Commandment is indeed in effect from the begging and into eternity), then how are you by natural birth different than someone who was born without a head?

It is for a headless world that the Holy Son of God, Christ Jesus, came down from heaven and assumed the flesh of death while retaining His pure holiness, so that He would rescue it by His innocent suffering, crucifixion, and resurrection; the same Christ to Whom John the Baptizer pointed and cried aloud most clearly: "Behold the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world!"

Since He takes away sin, He takes away death. Since He takes away death, He takes away fear and all that would harm, even if it means literally losing ones' head to the executioner.

Much can be said about how John the Baptizer was faithful in all things, yet suffered ignominy, hardship, and even a sudden, bitter end. Since you are joined to Christ Jesus along with John the Baptizer, it is ultimately Christ, your Head, who will sustain you in this life and draw you in tender love to Himself. This, despite all evidence around you to the contrary. For it is the Maker of all things Who is acting for you! + + +