Stephen Seized
ACTS 6:8-15; PSALM 119; JOHN 6:22-29
In today’s first reading Stephen was arrested for preaching the Good News. While he was tried in the council, the Bible says “his face appeared to them like the face of an angel” (Acts6:15). This means that Stephen was innocent.
In fact, the Bible says “they secretly persuaded some men to say, “We have heard Stephen speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God” (Acts 6:11). There are still people who use others as pawns in their nasty schemes against rivals. There are still those that conspire to harm their rivals by giving others information.
Thus, the Bible says “Many are the affliction of the righteous, but the Lord delivers them out of them all” (Psalm 34:19). Apostle Peter says; “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you” (1 Peter 4:12). Beloved, something strange is not happening to you. In actuality, it’s natural and will undoubtedly benefit you in the long run.
In the gospel, we see the people following Jesus because they want more of the bread that he had given them. Most times we follow Jesus Christ because of our physical appetite. Christ wants men to follow him based on eternal values – like the desires that filled the heart of Stephen, only then shall our faces appear like that on an Angel at judgment.
LET US PRAY
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that, putting off our old self with all its ways, we may live as Christ did, for through the healing paschal remedies you have conformed us to his nature. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen
