Scripture Reading: Mat 2:16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.

Reflections: Herod was frightened when the wise men told him a Jewish king had been born. Since no one should challenge his power, he had to find and murder this child quickly. He politely asked them when they had seen the star. The wise men had no idea that their response would assist him in identifying the age range of the child. He needed this information to enable him to carry out his evil plan. This plan moved into action when the wise men failed to report back to him after they had visited baby Jesus. Herod had all children two years and younger in Bethlehem murdered. A key lesson in this story is that one has to be cautious in providing information about others. They may inadvertently be releasing information that will be used to harm the person. Guard against divulging information that will endanger the lives of others.

Prayer: Oh Lord, may I not divulge information that will be used to harm others.

Confession: I guard against divulging information that will endanger the lives of others.