Saint of the Day
St. Stephen, First Martyr
Stephen was one of the seven deacons appointed by the apostles to care for the widows of the Jerusalem community (Acts 6). Described as "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit," he performed signs and wonders and engaged in powerful public teaching. Brought before the Sanhedrin, he delivered a sweeping address recounting Israel's history and accusing its leaders of resisting the Holy Spirit. He was dragged outside the city and stoned, becoming the protomartyr — first witness to die for Christ. Saul of Tarsus watched approvingly; years later, as Paul, he would tell his own story of transformation.
Scripture Reading
Acts 7:59-60
While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Reflection
One day after Christmas, the church commemorates the first martyr. The juxtaposition is deliberate and bracing: the Christ who came in peace would be killed, and those who followed him closely would share that path. Stephen died with forgiveness on his lips, echoing Jesus on the cross. The manger and the stoning field stand side by side, reminding us that the gift of Christmas is costly grace.
Prayer for Today
Lord of Miracles, We come before you and lay this marriage in your hands. We ask that you would revive this husband and this wife, and draw them toward happy matrimony.
We ask that you would renew their love and passion for one another. We ask that you would untangle the conflicts and strife, and heal the hurts.
We ask that you would bring understanding and tenderness of heart. May they both embrace the miracle that you desire to do for them and with them. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
We ask that you would renew their love and passion for one another. We ask that you would untangle the conflicts and strife, and heal the hurts.
We ask that you would bring understanding and tenderness of heart. May they both embrace the miracle that you desire to do for them and with them. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Amen.