Morning Message: May 18

Stephen, the first deacon of the Church, invited others to follow Jesus.  He was persecuted by Saul, who later was converted to Christianity and whom we know as St. Paul.

A reading from the Acts of the Apostles

Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.  Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen stood up and argued with Stephen.  But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he spoke.  Then they secretly instigated some men to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.”  They set up false witnesses who said, “This man never stops saying things against this holy place and the law.”  When the Council heard these things, they became enraged and ground their teeth at Stephen.  Then they dragged him out of the city and began to stone him; and the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.  While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”  When he had said this, he died.  And Saul approved of their killing him.

Think about this silently in your heart.  Do we ever stone; that is, really hurt someone with our words or actions?

Stephen prayed for God to forgive his killers.  He knew that they were not fully aware of the scope of their wickedness.  They were spiritually blind. Stephen being a true follower of Jesus Christ still showed compassion for their souls.  He was able to do this only by the divine grace which empowered him.

As believers in Christ, we must remember to pray for our enemies; those who spitefully mistreat us.  We must also stay true to our faith, and stand on the promises of God as Stephen did, speaking the truth regardless of the oppositions we may face.

God of truth and justice, we pray that we may follow Jesus as St. Stephen did.  Even when it was hard, he was faithful to your word.  Help us to overcome challenges and to be true to you.  We ask this in Christ’s name.  Amen.

Have a wonderful Monday!