News about Jesus’ miracles spreads: he raised a child from the dead, fed five thousand people, healed the sick and cast out demons. People were talking about him with wonder and awe.

The local Jewish community, while trying to establish a connection with the Scriptures, came to various conclusions: they identified Jesus with Elijah, other Prophets and even John the Baptist, come back to life. The news reached Herod. This terrified him as he was responsible for the beheading of John the Baptist, a man he had respected. He sought Jesus more out of anxious curiosity than the desire for a genuine encounter.

The people of the time did not recognise Jesus for who he was, despite all the signs that were given to them. We, who profess the Christian faith, on the other hand, know for certain that Jesus is the Son of God. We confirm our belief each time we recite the Creed.

Knowing what we do, do we seek a genuine encounter with Christ?