The Holy Innocents

Today is the Feast of the Holy Innocents, where we honor the memory of the infants whom King Herod slaughtered following the birth of Jesus.

As I am writing this, I just went to confession less than a week ago as a couple of sins were weighing heavy on my heart. The 1 John reading today is to the point and powerful, and there is no misunderstanding of its meaning when you finish reading it.

If we acknowledge our sins, he is faithful and will forgive and cleanse us from all wrongdoing. Jesus himself has said this, as John the Apostle writes. When I sin, I talk to God about my sin and ask for forgiveness. Yet when I am face to face with another man the Lord has appointed to hear my shortcomings, as my father called sin, I am vulnerable and emotional. Yet when I leave the confessional, I am completely refreshed and free.

I encourage anyone reading this to examine your life, get to a priest, and confess your sins. Encourage your spouse and your children to do the same. Jesus has made no mistake as to what he wants from us.

Let Us Pray:

Dear heavenly Father help us all to put aside our pride and humble ourselves before you and confess our sins to be free and receive his grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.