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”; 8 others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” 9 But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.
In this passage, rumors about Jesus reached Herod the tetrarch. Some say that John the Baptist, whom Herod had executed, has been raised from the dead. Others suggest that Elijah has returned, or that one of the ancient prophets has come again. Herod is perplexed and troubled. He understands the implications of the stories, yet he cannot grasp the full meaning of what is happening.
Herod observes from a distance, trying to make sense of what he hears. He knows John, and he remembers the fear that John once inspired. Yet the reports about Jesus surpass anything he has seen or imagined. He seeks to see for himself, measuring this new figure according to his own standards of power and authority. In doing so, he misses the deeper truth: Jesus is not a mere political or prophetic figure. He is the fulfillment of God’s plan, moving quietly yet with determination toward the purpose for which He has come.
People around Jesus spoke of Him according to what they knew from the past. Herod, like many others, heard these reports but did not understand their full meaning. This passage shows that God’s work is often hidden from human understanding. Recognizing it requires careful attention, humility, and faith.
Even today, the work of God can seem hidden or confusing. We are called to look beyond rumors, speculation, and fear that cloud human judgment. Jesus comes to reveal God’s love and to guide us in truth. Faith allows us to recognize His presence and follow Him, even when the world around us is uncertain or troubled.
Heavenly Father, help us to recognize Your presence and Your work, even when it confounds human understanding. Give us hearts attentive to Your truth, eyes open to Your action in the world, and courage to follow the path You have prepared. This we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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Sources and References:
- The Holy Bible, New American Bible, Revised Edition (2011), Luke 9:7-9.
- A Catholic Commentary on Holy Scripture, ed. Orchard et al. (1953).
- The Navarre Bible: Luke, Faculty of the University of Navarre (2008).
- The Paulist Biblical Commentary, ed. Chiu et al. (2018).
- St. John Chrysostom, Homilies on the Gospel of Luke, c. 398–404.
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