Homily for Thursday of the 25th Week in Ordinary Time

Herod wielded power in Galilee on behalf of Rome. Saint Luke depicted his attitude toward Jesus as somewhat dismissive. When he learned about Jesus' activities and people's intense interest in Him, Herod became curious and sought to meet Him. Their encounter finally occurred during Jesus' Passion, when Pilate sent Jesus to Herod to verify His guilt. Herod questioned Jesus but ultimately treated Him with contempt. His curiosity about Jesus was superficial and did not lead to faith.

While some were led to faith by their interest in Jesus, even people of faith have much to contemplate about His life. Herod's question, "Who then is this?" is not just for him but for all of us to ponder. We must be constant seekers in our quest to know Jesus.

Let us pray that we will always strive to understand Jesus and His role in our redemption to deepen our relationship with Him and our hope for salvation.