Although the death of Goliath (described in our first reading) was that of a dangerous enemy and most likely prevented the death of many others, it was nevertheless the ending of a life deemed precious in the eyes of the Lord. Accordingly, even when the death of one, prevents the death of many, it remains an intrinsic and regrettable evil. How much more, then, when the life of one unborn is terminated simply because of some inconvenience to the mother. Life is the bright realm of the divine, and death the dark abode of the evil one; may our prayers today support all who defend life, and bring conversion and repentance to those whose words and actions deepen the darkness by their callous disregard for Life.