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     Scripture scholars remind us that the "infancy narratives" are like overtures to a musical or opera.  They contain the main themes of the gospels of Matthew and Luke. In Matthew's version of the story of Jesus' birth, the arrival of the Magi triggers a slaughter of infants in an effort to get rid of the "newborn King of the Jews."  Pilate and the Jewish religious authorities of the day succeeded where Herod failed and Pilate would put a notice on the cross: Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews!  In the Gospel According to Matthew, Jesus warns the disciples that his name could mean martyrdom for them!  Today we celebrate the first "official" martyr, Stephen!  

     It's a challenge to move in thought from the romance of the nativity scene to the gory truth of martyrdom, but today and Monday (Holy Innocents) we will be doing exactly that!  Those who would call themselves disciples of Jesus must understand that the joy of the gospel will contain the sorrow of suffering for the sake of that gospel.  Right now, the joy of the birth of Jesus and the future arrival of the Magi (who manage to get into the scene long before we celebrate their arrival) claim the lion's share of the season.  Grim reminders of lethal consequences, even if occurring in our own day and in this very season, can get shunted to the sideline.  St. Stephen and the Holy Innocents are prophetic reminders of the whole gospel!  AMEN