December 28, Holy Innocents

Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler's snare.-- Psalm 124:7

Mass readings:1 John 1:5-2:2 / Matthew 2:13-18

Witnesses for Christ

By their lives, all Christian martyrs give witness to the power and presence of God. But today's feast of the Holy Innocents presents a special case because not only had these children done nothing wrong, but they also had no way to defend themselves.

Perhaps sometimes we feel like that: we are struck down, verbally, spiritually, and even sometimes physically, simply because we wish to live in the presence and spirit of Christ. As King Herod had no respect for the newborn King of the Jews, so society often has no respect for us. However, the triumph of the Holy Innocents must be a great consolation for us. As Jesus says, if the world hates you, know it hated Him first.

Prayer: Lord, strengthen me so I may never deny You or Your message, even in little ways.