ST. STEPHEN, MARTYR
Acts 6:8–10; 7:54–59; Psalm 31; Matthew 10:17–22
The Church gives us a shock today. Just one day after celebrating the birth of Christ, we celebrate the death of His first martyr. Yesterday a Child lay in a manger; today a man lies under stones. The message is clear: following Jesus has a cost. Christianity is not a comfort zone but a courageous commitment.
Stephen did not die because he committed a crime; he died because he spoke the truth. When death stared him in the face, he forgave his killers and surrendered his spirit to God. No one can do this by human strength alone. Stephen could forgive because he was full of the Holy Spirit. Martyrdom is the highest form of witnessing, and no one can truly witness to Christ without the Spirit of God.
In the Gospel, Jesus warns us that believers will face opposition, betrayal, and rejection. Yet He gives us hope: “It is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father.” Opposition should not make us change our position in Christ. Those who stand firm to the end will be saved.
Today, Saint Stephen reminds us that the newborn King does not ask for spectators but for witnesses. Do not give up.
Prayer
Lord, give us your Spirit to remain faithful, to forgive like Stephen, and to stand firm in faith. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
