The Pleasure of Death

August 5, Saturday of the 17th week in Ordinary time,
Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome
Daily Readings: First reading: Leviticus 25:1, 8–17; Gospel; Matthew: 14:1–12.

The child of Herodias is full of sin, culminating in the death of a very holy person, John the Baptist. Herodias and Herod were no less immoral as a result of Herodias' desertion of Philip for power. And Herod, unable to resist his desire, took the wife of his brother Philip while he was still alive.

These three figures illustrate how perilous it is to be overly attached to unrestrained lust. The lust that provides momentary delight will lead to our demise. Intoxication, dancing, and inappropriate films cause us to forget God.

As a result of hedonism, consumerism, and materialism, we worship worldly objects rather than God-pleasing spiritual ones. Our uncontrollable desires harden our souls and desensitize our conscience to sin. The significance of contrition and self-control over passions that are out of control. We are placing God at the center of one's existence and upholding holiness in order to be worthy of Him.

The Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome is one of Italy's four major basilicas. Pope Liberius established this basilica. In her message, Our Lady requested that a chapel be constructed where it snows. The sanctuary was renamed Liberian Basilica or Basilica of Our Lady in the Snow.

In the same way that Our Lady devoted Her life to God's will, we imitate Her humility and obedience in order to live according to God's will and avoid the lust for pleasures that leads to mortality.