1. Herod executes John the Baptist (1-12)

Jesus' powerful ministry reminded Herod of John the Baptist. John had publicly rebuked Herod for scandalously taking his brother's wife to be his own. John's actions angered Herod, but he was too afraid of public sentiment to kill John initially. Instead, Herod put John in prison. Later, during a dinner party, Herod made a foolish boast and-to save face-had John beheaded.

2. Jesus' compassion for others (13-21)

Upon hearing of John's martyrdom, Jesus withdrew to a solitary place. He needed time for himself to mourn and pray. However, people learned of this and flocked to his location. Jesus was not annoyed and had compassion on them. Though Jesus' heart was deeply pained by John's unjust death, the pain of these people affected him even more. Jesus healed their sick. When his disciples' strength was gone, he insisted the crowd be fed. Jesus miraculously fed them on five loaves and two fish.


Application: Lord Jesus, thank you for thinking of us ahead of yourself, even shedding your blood for us on the cross. In your strength and love, help me to love others as you have loved me.
One Word: Accept and practice Jesus' compassion