Tuesday of the 3rd week of Easter
Acts 7: 51-8:1a John 6: 30-35
Theme: Faith in God
In the 1st reading of today from the Acts of the Apostles, we see a continuation of the encounter between St. Stephen and the people. The people were looking for all available opportunities to discredit Stephen, so that they will have the opportunity to accuse him of having blasphemed. Interestingly, their actions did not stop St. Stephen from telling the people the truth about the message of Christ that he brought to them. At this point, there was no fear of the people in the eyes of St. Stephen, and he continued to preach to the people. Sometimes in our lives we find ourselves in a similar situation that challenges our faith in God. We are all encouraged today to remain steadfast in faith and continue to preach the good news of Christ in our words and actions. Sometimes the challenge we have is that some of us get scared because of the challenges facing us and we give in to what they want us to do and let go of our personal convictions. This was not the case for St. Stephen, he continued to preach to the people and ended up paying the supreme price with his life. The people accused him falsely and ended up stoning him to death, because they could not stand the truth about themselves.
The scenario that plays out in the 1st reading of today, should continue to strengthen our faith in God, knowing fully well that our call to discipleship has a price attached to it, for everyone who truly desire to serve God. The good news is that when we are faced with such difficulties, because of our call to discipleship, God will always stand by our side and provide all the necessary support that we need. This simply points out the fact that there is always a price for us to pay, if we truly desire to live a life that is good and always pleasing to God. St. Stephen has given us the courage that we need at such a time in our lives, knowing fully well that the grace of God will support us when it matters most. God never deserts his people, and he will not begin it with us. Now is the time for us to trust in God and live like true children of God that we are all called to be.
We pray that God will continue to strengthen our faith, no matter the situation we find ourselves in life, in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you.