We pick up the Christmas story after the visit of the magi to the child in the manger. Joseph again has a dream that forces a decision – he is told that Jesus’ life is in danger from a vengeful Herod and to flee with his young family to Egypt. A slaughter of innocent life in Bethlehem follows. Only when this Herod dies is it safe for Jesus and his family to return.

The lectionary takes us to a challenging place this week. In the midst of the bright lights and joy of Christmas, we have the darkness and sorrow of the story of the ‘Holy Innocents’ and the account of the holy family fleeing as refugees. Both the joy of the season and the sorrow at the heart of the Gospel reading remind us that all lives are precious. We reflect on this in different ways and allow ourselves to be challenged to care for those in danger or sorrow.