Acts 6:8
Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.
It's always startling to read the story of Stephen on the day after Christmas. The single verse I've quoted above isn't all that disheartening, but if you're not familiar with how the story goes, it doesn't end well for Stephen. He is remembered as the first martyr for Christ, and he was stoned for some within the community "could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he spoke" (v. 10). We read his story on December 26 because this is the Feast of St. Stephen, the day when we remember him.
Yes, it's startling. Yes, it stands in stark contrast to our celebrations of the birth of Jesus. But it is also the reminder that this baby born in a manger was not sent so that we could coo over his baby cries and then go back to our normal lives. This baby -- this Jesus -- brought a message of hope and promise, and his life, death, and resurrection proclaim victory over death.
Thanks be to God!
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
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