Feast of Saint Stephen, the First Christian Martyr – Acts 6:8-10,7:54-59; Matthew 10:17-22

“And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit’. And when he fell to his knees, he cried out loudly: ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them'”.

This is Stephen’s response to the gift he received. The gift of eternal life, which the good God offered him through his Son. The Son offered himself for us. By accepting human nature and then dying for us on the cross. Is it any wonder that Stephen offers his life in return for this gift?

This is the normal path of a Christian. It is not necessarily to die for your Master right away. Because after all, not everyone will necessarily be demanded such a sacrifice. But you definitely have to give your life for Jesus day by day, drop by drop. Trusting Him with all your heart and loving Him as He loved. . .

To give your life standing before various governors and kings of our times. Facing the pressure of the prevailing fashion or opinion in line with what is now called political correctness. And also facing the necessity of saying “no” to our loved ones. God offered himself for us. We can repay Him in the same way, at least in a small way.

In the restaurant. Many people around me. I can cross myself. But how dare I pray for a moment when it seems that everyone can see me?

Stephen embarrasses me. He gave his life for You. I am ashamed of what someone will think of me who sees me devoutly saying an ordinary prayer before eating. And yet it contains ordinary gratitude. It is thanks to your grace, God, that I have all this. Why should I hide the fact that I know this?