Today, as we celebrate the Feast of Saint Stephen, the first martyr of our Holy Church, we find ourselves reflecting on the profound and intertwining themes of sacrifice, courage, and the light of faith that shines even amidst the darkest trials. In our readings, we are presented with another model for our faith that is Stephen, whose life and death speak volumes about the call to true discipleship in the wake of Christ’s birth.
In the First Reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we learn that Stephen was "filled with grace and power" as he performed great signs and wonders among the people. This was not merely a display of miraculous abilities; it was the manifestation of God’s presence and love through him. When confronted and challenged by those who denied the truth, Stephen stood firm in his faith. While many sought to silence him, Stephen's spirit was resolute—evidently filled with the Holy Spirit, he looked to heaven and proclaimed his vision of the glory of God and Jesus standing at His right hand.
What can we learn from Stephen? First and foremost, his unwavering faith teaches us that true bravery comes from intimacy with God. Despite the hostility he faced, Stephen remained steadfast, his thoughts focused not on his impending execution but on the glory of Heaven. This is a call for us to cultivate our own relationship with God, especially in our daily trials. Just as Stephen found strength in looking toward Heaven, we too are invited to seek God in our struggles. When we face moments of adversity or conflict, whether from the outside world or within ourselves, it is our faith that can lead us to peace.
Moreover, we cannot overlook the link between Saint Stephen’s martyrdom and the Christ child we celebrate just the day before. The birth of Jesus signifies the profound gift of God’s love entering the world in humility and vulnerability. It sets the stage for the ultimate act of love—Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Saint Stephen’s martyrdom reveals the same spirit of sacrificial love. He embodies the message of Christmas—the sacrificial laying down of one’s life in humility for the sake of others where we already catch a glimpse of this right there at the manger, in the cold abandoned cave of Bethlehem, cradled in the tender warmth of the arms of our Most Holy Mother. Then, as he grew in age and wisdom, Jesus obeyed and allowed himself in his human nature to be led by the spirit.
Stephen would see in the birth of the long-awaited Savior, a profound humility on God’s part and his tender mercy for the world. He understood that God invited us to do the same—to bear witness to our faith, to love without counting the cost, and to proclaim that Jesus’ light is far greater than the shadows of hatred and violence.
In the Responsorial Psalm, we hear a response to suffering: “Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.” This becomes a prayer we can adopt, especially in difficult times when we feel overwhelmed. Every act of faith, every moment of trust in God, is a way of surrendering our lives into the care of our Creator. It was in his last moments that Stephen fully lived out this psalm, trusting in the mercy and faithfulness of God amidst his torment.
Today’s Gospel reading from Matthew echoes this theme as Jesus warns His disciples of the sacrifices that may lie ahead. He tells them that they will be handed over, scorned, and even betrayed, but also reassures them that they will not face these trials alone. He speaks of the Holy Spirit that will speak through them, providing the words necessary when they are put to the test.
The path of discipleship is marked by the reality of suffering, yet we are promised the presence of the Spirit to guide us and empower us. As we leave this celebration today, let us ask ourselves: how are we called to be witnesses in our world? In a society often marked by division and hostility, can we emulate Stephen's spirit of compassion, conviction, and courage? Can we recognize God's light within us, even as we encounter darkness?
Saint Stephen, the first martyr, is honoured in heaven and on earth, right after the birth of our Savior. May he continue to pray for us so that we too can so appreciate and reciprocate the love of God in the Incarnation that we will be willing to do everything his loving will determines on our behalf. Saint Stephen, martyr of God, pray for us and for the whole world.
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