St. Stephen

26Dec
Now during those days, when the disciples were increasing in number, Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food.  The twelve disciples said it is not right that we should neglect the Word of God in order to wait tables. Thus, they selected seven good men to accomplish this task (assisting widows with food and support) While we the disciples, will devote ourselves to prayer and to serving the WORD. This pleased the community and they chose Stephen and six others as deacons to serve this duty. These men stood before the Apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

Stephen, full of Grace and Power, did great works of wonder and signs among the people (Miracles). Then some from the Synagogue stood up and argued with Stephen, but they could not match the wisdom and spirit with which he spoke.…..
 
When they heard these things, they became angered and ground their teeth at Stephen. But Stephen, looking to the Heavens saw the Glory of God with Jesus standing at his right hand. They dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Saul watched in agreement with the mob. While being stoned, Stephen prayed, “Lord receive my spirit” . Then he knelt down and cried out loud, ”Lord do not hold this sin against them.” When he said this, he closed his eyes and died.

- (the story of St. Stephen from Acts 6,7 edited for brevity)


Today, on the day after Christmas, we have abruptly stopped hearing Christmas Music on NPR .We are savoring sweet memories of Family and Friends during the recent Christmas celebrations. We are enveloped in a cocoon of happiness and wellbeing. Suddenly our peace is shattered by the events of the feast day of St Stephen (Dec 26). On this day we learn that a young and bright disciple of Jesus was stoned to death. A quick reversal of the joy of the birth of Jesus? Not really. The life of St. Stephen should bring us joy and hope. He had the face of an Angel as he faced the tribunal. He forgave his tormentors as he faced death. He served the poor by providing food and alms. He excelled at preaching the gospel. He portrayed all of the goodness of Jesus during his short life. He became the first Christian Martyr. On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, SAINT STEPHEN!

  

The second day of Christmas (Dec 26) is also Boxing Day, when the wealthy distribute boxes of holiday food and gifts to their associates and employees much in the spirit of Saint Stephen.


This time of year, as we think about New Years’ resolutions, we might consider emulating the life of St Stephen during the coming year. As we say in the Lord’s Prayer, ”and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us”; please, Lord, help us to forgive our enemies as St. Stephen did.


Trinity offers a number of opportunities to serve those who are in less fortunate circumstances. As St Stephen served the poor widows, we have opportunities to participate throughout the year in giving to those in need through Trinity Loaves and Fishes food for our local Migrant Community, and the The Trinity Medical Mission is poised to continue 30 years of service to the Latin American Community with Mission to Mexico planned for the summer of 2026. Anyone can serve or assist, even without a medical background.


Saul (Who later became St Paul) was a participant in the persecution of St Stephen.(He felt that Stephen was deserving of his fate.) Later, on the Road to Damascus, he underwent a blinding conversion into the Goodness of God. In the new year we might seek forgiveness for our past misdeeds just as Paul did. I’m thankful that I was introduced to St Stephen, in the writing of this meditation. He’s now one of my favorite saints.                                      


Musical Reflection - Good King Wenceslas -Roger Wagner Chorale


We give you thanks, O Lord of glory, for the example of the first martyr Stephen, who looked up to heaven and prayed for his persecutors to your Son Jesus Christ, who stands at your right hand: where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

Saints

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