The Holy Innocents

"He was infuriated, and he sent and killed all the children in and around Bethlehem who were two years old or under ..." (Matt. 2:16).

Herod is the very picture of a tyrant whose emotions are out of control. His power and position means that he can throw a tantrum, and innocent children will die. When he settles down, he does not have to deal with the consequences. He will never set foot in Bethlehem and hear the weeping.

Jesus, who must have grown up with the family story of the narrow escape into Egypt, suggests a radically different path. He suggests that we adults, who have power over children, should exercise responsibility in our care for them. "It would be better for you," he says, "if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea" than if you caused a little child to stumble (Matt. 18:6).

What children has God placed in your life to care for? What should you be doing to ensure they can run without stumbling into the life God has prepared for them?