Saint John the Baptist was ready to stand up for the truth, even at the expense of his own life. This was in contrast to Herodias who had a dead conscience, Herod who while was a good man had a weak conscience, as well as Herodias who could not take a stand of her own.

What is the state of our conscience? Is it weak like Herod’s, or strong enough to stand against trials like Saint John the Baptist’s? What can we do to ensure a formed conscience that will enable us to stand firm and defend the trial amidst difficulties in life?

Today’s readings remind us of our responsibility to be a good witness of Christ, even in the workplace. When we are driven by selfish motives or lose sight of the important mission of the Gospel in our daily living, we become counter witnesses and fail to bring glory to Him. Let us pray for the grace to be purified of our intentions, so that we may be more effective witness of Christ’s goodness.

Whatever we do, we must be led to a deeper relationship with God. While sacred traditions of our faith are important, we need to be careful that we do not merely perform or observe them. They are means to help Catholics to appreciate Jesus more in their life, experience Him and to grow in union with Him.

As we practise the sacred traditions of our faith, how is it helping us to encounter the Lord and have a deeper relationship with Him?

Conflict and misunderstanding in community are bound to happen due to how we see the world and our fallen nature.

Today's Gospel teaches us that a childlike attitude is essential for embracing God's Word, even when it challenges our perceptions. This requires a humble heart.

In today's Gospel, Jesus reminds us that He came not to just heal our bodies but to save our souls through the call of repentance and forgiveness of sins. How can we proclaim the Truth of the Gospel, even when we are faced with possible rejection and slander?

Listening to the Word of God, Christ our light will enlighten us in the truth about life, about ourselves and about God. Walking in the way of our Lord, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life, we will find life to the fullest, on earth and in heaven. If Christ is the light and the Way, as Christians, we do not seek any other way, certainly not the ways of the World to find true happiness.

The rejection and condemnation of Jesus continues today even in our hearts on this Good Friday. Look at Christ on the cross and allow the power of the cross to reign in our hearts as God's grace, mercy and love are poured into our lives.

The deeper meaning of the washing of feet is the total self-emptying of Jesus in love. When we truly love, we need to empty ourselves of pride, honour, ego and recognition. This is what we are called to imitate today so that we can feel with our brothers and sisters, identify with each other and share in the same humanity - for that is the perfection of Love.

Christian Joy does not mean a joy without suffering. Christian joy means we are joyful in suffering; joyful in bearing the cross of Jesus, because of love. When there is love, there is joy in suffering. Without love, suffering will cripple us.