December 28, 2020 Monday THE HOLY INNOCENTS, MARTYRS -B

1 John 1:5—2:2

Psalm 124

Matthew 2:13-18

God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all.  1 John 1:5

He ordered the massacre of all the boys in Bethlehem… Mt. 2:16

Lord, darkness is the source of so much evil in our world. Herod gave into the darkness of his heart and out of fear killed many innocent children. Darkness and death go together. Your light illuminated his sins therefore he couldn’t allow it to shine. You came to shine light so we could see our way and not stumble in the darkness. You hung on the cross because others could not stand your light. You even shed your blood for Herod. You came to forgive our sins and to invite us into the light that is eternal life with you. Lord, look with mercy on all those who, out of ignorance or the darkness of their hearts, harm or kill innocent children today. Pride, selfishness, ego and independence are still threats to defenseless children, born and unborn. So many have lost their respect for the dignity of God’s gift of life. Lord, banish any darkness you find in my heart. May I always strive to protect those who cannot defend themselves. Dear Jesus, I lift up to you all babies in danger. I beg your grace for all parents with problem pregnancies that they may choose life.  Amen.