Daily Readings - Thu Dec 26 2019
Acts
8Then Stephen, filled with grace and fortitude, wrought great signs and miracles among the people9But certain ones, from the synagogue of the so-called Libertines, and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those who were from Cilicia and Asia rose up and were disputing with Stephen10But they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking
54Then, upon hearing these things, they were deeply wounded in their hearts, and they gnashed their teeth at him55But he, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and gazing intently toward heaven, saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.56And he said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing at the right hand of God."57Then they, crying out with a loud voice, blocked their ears and, with one accord, rushed violently toward him58And driving him out, beyond the city, they stoned him. And witnesses placed their garments beside the feet of a youth, who was called Saul59And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out and said, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.
Matthew
17But beware of men. For they will hand you over to councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues18And you shall be led before both rulers and kings for my sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles19But when they hand you over, do not choose to think about how or what to speak. For what to speak shall be given to you in that hour20For it is not you who will be speaking, but the Spirit of your Father, who will speak in you21And brother will hand over brother to death, and father will hand over son. And children will rise up against parents and bring about their deaths22And you will be hated by all for the sake of my name. But whoever will have persevered, even to the end, the same shall be saved
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that illuminate the journey of faith and perseverance. The first reading from Acts recounts the story of Stephen, one of the first deacons, who faced intense opposition for his unwavering commitment to the Gospel. Despite the wisdom and miracles he performed, Stephen was met with hostility, leading to his martyrdom by stoning. This event marks a pivotal moment in the early Christian church, highlighting the beginning of persecution and introducing Saul, who would later become the Apostle Paul, a testament to God's transformative power.
The Gospel reading from Matthew presents Jesus preparing His disciples for the challenges they will face. He warns them of impending persecutions and assures them that the Holy Spirit will guide their words and actions during these trials. This passage underscores the reality of hardship in the life of a disciple and offers a message of hope and divine assistance.
These readings are deeply connected, as both address the theme of enduring persecution with faith. Stephen's martyrdom exemplifies the reality of suffering for one's beliefs, while Jesus' words provide the theological foundation, encouraging believers to trust in the Holy Spirit's guidance. In our daily lives, we may face lesser forms of persecution or challenges, but the lessons remain relevant. We are called to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting that God will provide the strength and wisdom needed to navigate difficult times.
The moral lesson here is one of perseverance and trust. Like Stephen, we must stand firm in our convictions, even when faced with adversity. Jesus' promise assures us that we are not alone; the Holy Spirit will guide us. As we reflect on these readings, let us embrace the courage to endure hardships with faith, knowing that our perseverance is a testament to God's grace and power in our lives.