In contrast to the joy and peace of Christmas, the jolting juxtaposing if Stephen's martyrdom the very next day is jolting, to say the least. It is, however, a sobering reminder of the mission of Jesus, to teach us to love our enemies and to forgive those who persecute us. Stephen's stoning and his final words do just that. "He fell at their knees and cried out in a loud voice, 'Lord do not hold this sin against them.'" (Acts 7:60).
In our own day, when such brutality against Christians is rampant, or when subtle or not so subtle encroachments of our secular culture belittle, mock or attack our beliefs, do we react with anger or forgiveness? Or, how patient are we within our families when our attempts to speak and live the Truth are challenged? St. Stephen teaches us that from the beginning, living as Christ taught is not easy, even dangerous. This lesson is part of the Christmas package, and it's not something that can be exchanged for another more to our liking as we might do with an unwelcome gift.
Bro. Rene
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