St. Stephen
Acts 6:8–10, 7:54–59; Psalm 31; Matthew 10:17–22
Accepting Jesus and becoming a follower has its cost. Today, the church celebrates the martyrdom of St. Stephen. His life was an embodiment of faithfulness, commitment, boldness, wisdom, eloquence, forgiveness, compassion, service, suffering, and the hope of eternal life. Let’s imitate his example as we live out our Christian vocation.
Stephen was the first to experience martyrdom. He was persecuted, yet he did not give up his faith; rather, he offered his life, saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” His death is portrayed like that of Jesus, forgiving his executioners and commending his spirit to the Lord. No man can do this except through the Spirit. Stephen was full of the Holy Spirit. We need the Holy Spirit. No man can witness to Christ without the Holy Spirit.
In the Gospel, Jesus says, “It is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father.” Jesus prepares our minds for the days of persecution. He reminds us that when this happens, the Holy Spirit will give us the wisdom of victory. And so he urges us to persevere, saying, “Those who stand firm to the end will be saved.” Beloved, opposition should not make you change your position in Christ. Do not be discouraged; there is a price we must pay as we place our faith in the new-born King.
Let us pray
Grant, Lord, we pray that we may imitate what we worship and so learn to love even our enemies, for we celebrate the heavenly birthday of a man who knew how to pray even for his persecutors. Give us your Spirit so that we may persevere in trials and be triumphant in faith. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
