There were many who were welcomed into Bethlehem at the birth of Jesus. The shepherds were welcomed. They told everyone what they had seen and heard. They told everyone what the angels had told them: "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11).
The Wise Men were welcomed into Bethlehem. A star had brought them to where Jesus was. They must have been quite a group, and the residents of Bethlehem must have been very excited to see these visitors from the East. They had seen His star and had come to worship the King of the Jews.
But there was one who was not welcomed into Bethlehem: Herod. Known for his horrible reputation, he was so insecure he murdered members of his own family whom he thought were conspiring against him.
Herod heard from the Wise Men a new king of the Jews had been born. His own staff confirmed this would happen in Bethlehem. When the Wise Men didn't return to help him find this new king, Herod was incensed. He ordered the murder of all males two years old and younger in and around Bethlehem. Fortunately, Joseph had been warned about these unwelcome visitors and escaped to Egypt.
On this day of the Church year we remember the death of these baby boys. It is called "The Holy Innocents, Martyrs." We remember these boys, their parents, and all untimely deaths of children and the pain it brings their parents. We also consider our Lord's great love for those children, and His compassion for those parents. On this day, we pray our Lord would release His love and compassion through us who experience unwelcome visitors to the Bethlehems of our time.
THE PRAYER: O tender Jesus, watch over and protect every child from unwanted visitors. Amen.
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