As we read in Scripture, “We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him” (Romans 5:28). This includes the seemingly senseless deaths of innocent infants. Maybe the Communion Antiphon helps us understand why God allows such a thing: “Behold those redeemed as the first fruits of the human race for God and the Lamb, and who follow the Lamb wherever he goes.” In the Entrance Antiphon, we read, “The innocents were slaughtered as infants for Christ; spotless, they follow the Lamb and sing forever: Glory to you, Lord!” Saint Paul struggled with similar mysteries, writing, “At present we see indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then face to face. At present I know partially; then I shall know fully, as I am fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:12). The human condition prevents us from seeing the whole picture as God sees it. While God wants us to avoid pain and suffering with all the means at our disposal, pain, suffering, and death are a part of our life on earth. Yet, we can take comfort in Jesus’ words that suffering can be a blessing: “Blessed are those who mourn” (Matthew 5:5). Certainly, the parents of those first infant martyrs are among those to whom Jesus is referring.

In recovery, we learn by remaining clean and sober that our minds become ever clearer—allowing us to better see and understand the will of God, even if only partially. Due to our abstinence from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments, we can hear what God wants to communicate to us in prayer and share it with others. Isn’t it a gift that we can pray for others and share the love of God with them? Isn’t it a gift that we can be a light for Christ in our daily lives? By working and reworking the Steps, particularly Steps Five, Six, and Seven, God can eliminate the character defects that hinder us from hearing the Lord and bringing His voice to others. We can come to see that God lives and reigns in our lives, no matter what suffering we encounter. Today, in a loud voice, let us profess our faith, exclaiming, “I know that my Redeemer liveth” (Handel’s Messiah). Today, let us thank the Holy Innocents for giving their lives so that our Savior might live.

Reflection Questions

• Just for today, how can you help a friend or family member overcome a problem that causes him or her pain?
• What suffering in your life can you offer up for another person today? Rest with this feeling of sacrificial love for a moment, allowing it to radiate from your head to your heart.

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 John 1:5—2:2
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 124:2-3, 4-5, 7cd-8
Gospel: Matthew 2:13-18

Reflection by Chiara F.