December 28, 2018 Friday THE HOLY INNOCENTS

1 John 1:5—2:2

Psalm 124

Matthew 2:13-18

Our help is in the name of the Lord… Ps. 124:8

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

Lord, it’s hard for us to hear of this tragic slaughter of children amid our Christmas celebrations and joy.  Its reality reminds us that darkness continues to exist even with your light entering into our world.  Mary and Joseph had little time to enjoy their new baby because you and your parents had to flee to another country for safety.  I’m so happy Joseph listened and obeyed the message from the angel.  Lord, I lift up all children in need of protection and safety.  I pray for the innocents in the wombs of their mothers.  I ask your protection on immigrant children and missing children and those in abusive homes or those trapped in poverty.  Heal those children who are sick, those with birth defects or born with addictions.  Please, please stop the horrendous practice of human trafficking which harms so many.  I know I have a part to play in making this world a safer place for children.  Guide me and so many others to work for the innocents today who can’t take care of themselves.  They depend on us, on me.  May your grace inspire our nation to be a place of safety for all children, born and unborn.  Amen.