Daily Readings - Tue Dec 26 2023
Acts
8And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people.9Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and disputed with Stephen.10But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking.
54Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him.55But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and 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."57But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together at him.58Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul.59And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit."
Matthew
17Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues,18and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles.19When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour.20For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.21Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death,22and you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
Sermon
The sermon begins with a reflection on the readings from Acts and Matthew, highlighting the themes of persecution and faith.
In the first reading, Stephen, a deacon, faces opposition for his miracles and preaching. Despite his wisdom, he is stoned to death, remaining faithful and seeing Jesus in his final moments. This event marks the start of Christian persecution and showcases Stephen's unwavering faith.
The Gospel reading from Matthew has Jesus preparing His disciples for future challenges, warning them of persecution and betrayal. He assures them that the Holy Spirit will guide their words during trials, emphasizing perseverance as key to salvation.
Both readings connect through the theme of enduring persecution with faith. Stephen's martyrdom exemplifies this, while Jesus' words prepare the disciples for similar trials. They highlight trust in God and the Holy Spirit's role in adversity.
In daily life, this teaches believers to stand firm in faith, trusting God's provision of strength and guidance. The moral lesson is one of faithfulness and trust, encouraging believers to remain steadfast, knowing God will provide the necessary endurance.
Thus, the sermon weaves together the historical context, the relational themes of persecution and faith, and applies these lessons to modern life, urging trust and perseverance in God.