Often, we tend to perceive our transgressions as merely personal, affecting only ourselves. However, the unusual circumstances of the tragic massacre of the holy innocents starkly reveal that the internal struggle between our vices and virtues holds significant consequences for others as well. The person we allow ourselves to become over time extends our influence, for better or for worse, to those around us.

May we earnestly seek the Lord, surrendering any pride, arrogance, hatred, and jealousy to Jesus so that we may be consumed by and overflow with God’s unfailing love.