This little Child has come into the world to save His people; and not only has He not where to lay His head, but they seek to take His tender life with the cruel sword.

Does He say, “I will not save these men. They seek to shed My Blood, to take the life of Me, who came to be their life.”

“I will not save them!”

No. It is already in His Heart, “Father, forgive them.”

The wilder their hate, the more tender His love.

Dear Child Jesus, I will bear no anger nor hatred in my heart.

I forgive all who have hurt me, or who have sought to do me harm.

Give me grace, for your dear sake, always to forgive, always to pray for those who may injure me or wish me ill.

Dear Mother Mary, it was sorrow, not anger, that filled your heart. You could not but pray for the enemies of your dear Son. Pray that I may have ever a forgiving heart.

Holy Joseph, pray for me.

Most Holy Child Jesus, save your children.