The days of Christmas roll along, but hit a speed bump on December 28. Speed bump? It’s more like running off a cliff. Today remembers the Holy Innocents, the children of Bethlehem who were slaughtered by King Herod in the attempt to kill Jesus who might become his rival.

It’s an appalling story. The Magi went to Jerusalem looking for the new born King of the Jews. Herod, who had become King of Judea by political maneuvering, was terrified by their quest. He had already murdered his wife and three of his sons because he thought they were plotting against him. When the Magi failed to report back to him exactly who this new King was and where he cold be found, he ordered the death all the children under 2 years old in the area around Bethlehem.

Jesus had done nothing but be born. That was enough to provoke a violent reaction. The hostility continued during his ministry and culminate with his crucifixion. It hasn’t stopped. To this day people can be endangered by being followers of Jesus. Don’t believe me? Try telling some people we ought to love our enemies.

I am always grieved by the way we mistreat innocent children. Some are shot in their schools or homes, but little is done to protect them. Many are homeless or go hungry, but our society argues about whether anything should be done to help them.

The love of God was born into the world in Jesus. I’d like to see that born in the hearts of all people.

Read Matthew 2:16-18 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne