Motivation is a significant factor underlying all behavior. It tells us whether what we do is reflective of the gospel or something else. Herod wanted to see Jesus, not because he thought Jesus might be a positive influence on him; not any more than John the Baptist; but rather because he feared Jesus would draw people away from him and Jesus would usurp his royal power. Herod's motivations were out of self-centeredness and insecurity.

When we think about Herod's motives, are we led to be more attentive about our own? Do we act in order to be recognized, or to cover up some guilt, to put slave on hurt feelings, to be thanked or to feel better emotionally? Or do we strive to act according to gospel values simply because it is the reflection of what Jesus taught and did?

The martyrs, Cosmas and Damien, whom we honor today, are co-patrons with St. Luke in the medical profession, especially physicians. Twin brothers, Arabic by birth, they studied the sciences in Syria where they also studied and adopted Christianity

Filled with holy charity, they practiced their professions with great diligence and success, but never took any fee for their services. When persecution began to rage it was impossible for persons so distinguished in character to hide concealed.

They were apprehended, arrested, and ultimately beheaded along with their three other brothers Amnthimus, Leontius, and Euprepius in the year 303.

Ten years later Constantine would declare Christianity the religion of the Empire and an end to persecutions. In the next century two churches would be built in Constantinople honoring these martyrs. In 530 a basilica was built in Rome in their honor.

Many miracles of healing were attributed to them after their death; often they appeared to sufferers in their sleep either prescribing or healing their illness.

St. Ambrose and St Basil warn against too anxious a care for health as a mark of untrustingness and self-love; but man is not the master of his own life or health; he is morally bound to take reasonable care not to throw them away. To neglect the simple and ordinary means of medicine when they are available is to transgress the charity which everyone owes to himself.