Second Sunday after Christmas

Readings appointed for the principal service:  Jeremiah 31:7-14; Ephesians 1:3-6, 15-19; and Matthew 2:13-23

Meditation.
"Those who go out weeping will be consoled."
But what consolation was there for the mothers who lost their babies to Herod the Great's jealousy?
Were the eyes of their hearts opened, rather than merely broken?
It's a hard reading, that speaks of death and dreams.

Prayer.
I do not have words to respond to respond to this tragedy.
It is a hard lesson, that life springs from death.
Train me to see your path,
even in darkness.
Grant that I may feel your hand guiding me
especially as I confront my darkest questions.

Contemplation.
How to affirm life this day.