Saint of the Day
St. Stephen, Protomartyr
Stephen was one of the first seven deacons appointed by the apostles in Jerusalem (Acts 6). A man "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit," he was the first Christian martyr, stoned to death for his proclamation of the Gospel. His final prayer — "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" — echoed the words of Jesus on the cross and is thought to have made an impression on the young Saul of Tarsus, who held the cloaks of those who stoned him.
Scripture Reading
Acts 6:8, 7:55-56
Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. ... But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. "Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."
Reflection
The church places St. Stephen's feast immediately after Christmas — not to dampen the joy, but to show what the Incarnation cost and what it produces. The one born in a manger stands at God's right hand, and for Stephen, that vision was worth everything. Christmas joy is not soft; it is strong enough to face stones, because it sees what Stephen saw: Jesus standing, welcoming, waiting.
Prayer for Today
Thank you, Jesus! I'm not a person of many words, but you know my heart Lord. Thank you for my family, my friends, and your blessings. I pray for each and every person here Lord. Thank you, Jesus. Amen.
Amen.