Self-appropriation as a means to counter temptations

Self-appropriation as a means to counter temptations

Mark 6:14-29. Herod beheads John the Baptist

The story of why Herod beheaded John the Baptist seems parallel to Solomon’s fall from grace: driven by temptation and worldly desires.

Lonergan offers the general empirical method and authenticity towards self-appropriation, that is, acquiring the ability to objectively look at one’s emotions, thoughts, values, and tendencies through critical reflection. Understanding our tendencies allows us to assess our weaknesses and conditions which we are most likely to succumb to temptation.

The stories of Herod and Solomon illustrate that even the most poweful or the wisest are not immune from temptations. I realize that knowledge and wisdom are insufficient; we need the virtue of fortitude and temperance to aid our pursuit of a truly responsible decision-making and action.

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 35: FEBRUARY 4, 2022]