Silent witness of the Children to Jesus the King

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Christmas Season: Christmas*

*Gospel :Mt 2:13-18*

*First Reading : 1 Jn 1:5—2:2*

*Responsorial Psalm :Ps 124:2-3, 4-5, 7cd-8*

*Feast of the Holy Innocents*

*Silent witness of the Children to Jesus the King*

*1) Innocence as Witness to Christ*

The Holy Innocents, though unable to consciously proclaim Christ, bear witness to Him through their sacrifice. 

In their innocence, they symbolize purity and a life offered to God, echoing Jesus’ words *Let the little children come to me... for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these"* (Matthew 19:14).

*2) The Reality of Evil and God’s Sovereignty*

Herod's actions reveal the destructive nature of sin and the fear-driven rejection of God’s plan. 

Yet, even in such darkness, God's sovereignty prevails. Jesus, who escaped this massacre, would later conquer sin and death on the cross, bringing ultimate victory over evil.

*3) Powerful witness to Christ in the History*

The massacre of the Holy Innocents, speaks louder than any witness to Christ in the History of the Church today 

The cry of the innocent children is louder than any sound or cry in the world today 

The cry of the children bear witness to Christ to the entire world today 

*4) The Cost of Following Christ*

The Holy Innocents remind us of the cost of discipleship. 

Though they did not choose martyrdom, their deaths foreshadow the sacrifices required to follow Christ

*5) Eternal Life for the Innocents*

The Holy Innocents are often seen as examples of baptism by blood. 

Their martyrdom granted them a place in God’s eternal kingdom, fulfilling Jesus’ promise in John 14:2: "I am going there to prepare a place for you."

These reflections on the Holy Innocents challenge us to honor the value of life, trust in God’s providence, and find hope in Christ’s ultimate victory over sin and death.

 Their story continues to call believers to faith, courage, and compassion.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*