\nIn the Gospel of Matthew Magi follow the Star from the East to Judea to visit the newborn child who will become King of the Jews. King Herod seeks advice then directs the Magi to Bethlehem. Herod asks the Magi to let him know where they find the child. After an angel visits the Magi informing them not to tell Herod of the Christ child, the Magi leave quietly without disclosing further information. Herod was distraught for he feared the prophecy of this new King. Not knowing the identity or location of the child, Herod orders his army to kill all boys in his kingdom two years of age and under.
\nJeremiah’s prophecy was fulfilled as Rachel wept for her young children.<\/p>\n
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<\/a>Scripture:
\nWhen they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. \u201cGet up,\u201d he said, \u201ctake the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.\u201d<\/p>\n
So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: \u201cOut of Egypt I called my son.\u201d<\/p>\n
When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.<\/p>\n
Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled:<\/p>\n
\u201cA voice is heard in Ramah,
\nweeping and great mourning,
\nRachel weeping for her children
\nand refusing to be comforted,
\nbecause they are no more.\u201d<\/p>\n
Matt. 2:13-18.<\/p>\n
Prayer:
\nWe remember today, O God, the slaughter of the holy innocents Of Bethlehem by King Herod. Receive, we pray, into the arms of your mercy all innocent victims; and by your great might frustrate the designs of evil tyrants and establish your rule of justice, love, and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.<\/p>\n
Hear My Words O Gracious Lord (Innocents). (1850).
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