Scripture:
1 John 1:5-2:2
Matthew 2:13-18
Reflection:
Today is the Feast of the Holy Innocents, Martyrs. These innocent babies were massacred by order of a demented King Herod! As I pen these thoughts, we are one week away from celebrating the birth of that newborn baby born in Bethlehem so many years ago. It was and is a life-changing event that impacts our lives on a daily basis. These days we are surrounded by the joy and frenzy, the hope and busyness of preparing for Christmas! This season is especially exciting for children as they anticipate the arrival of Santa Claus and the presents he is sure to bring!
This season is always special for children, so innocent and joyful. In the same way this time can be a reminder to all of us of the time of innocence we felt as children, the times we trusted totally in what was happening in the security of our family, church, community and world. It seems there are so many forces, ie., King Herod’s out and about trying to destroy that sense of innocence. Children, in their innocence show us what faith and trust is all about.
During this season of Advent our theme has been ‘The Light of Faith’. In the first reading today from 1John, we read,
God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all.
We are called to be people of the light, to capture that innocence of our youth and walk in faith and recognize the light of faith and trust in others. The insecurity and evil that drives the ‘King Herod’s’ to abuse their power and strength can be no match against the children of the light.
May we continue to walk always in the light and love of that newborn baby born in that stable in Bethlehem so long ago.
Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year to All.
Theresa Secord is a Pastoral Associate at St. Agnes Parish, Louisville, Kentucky.