First we heard how Stephen was filled with grace and power and working great wonders and signs. St. Luke records this point to emphasize that the pattern of Jesus’ life is reproduced in his disciples. Just as Jesus performed miracles, so we read in the book of Acts how many disciples, especially the Apostles perform miracles for the building up of the Church. The Apostles fulfill the Lord’s words: “Whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing. He will do even greater things than these”
Secondly, just as Jesus’ teachings could not be refuted, Stephen, when debating members of the synagogue, could not be refuted: “they could not withstand the wisdom and the spirit with which he spoke.” Though the Gospel is not always what the world wants to hear, doesn’t mean it’s false. In fact, we can be confident that the moral and doctrinal truths of Christianity are true, because they come from God.
Thirdly, when the Jews of the Synagogue become frustrated in arguing with Stephen, they resort to false witnesses, just as occurred in Jesus’ trial.
The powerful witness of the newly ordained deacon Stephen reminds us that successes in Christian ministry, especially in defending the faith against outsider’s attacks, can lead to persecution. Yet, the Spirit fills us, like Stephen, with grace and power and wisdom and courage, to witness to the truth of the Gospel.
Stephen closely imitated our Lord in proclaiming the Gospel and being rejected and suffering for the prophetic ministry. Jesus lives with, in, and through those who are united to him in faith. May such faith increase in us, that the pattern of Jesus’ life may be recreated in us for the glory of God and salvation of souls.
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Filled with Paschal joy, let us turn earnestly to God, to graciously hear our prayers and supplications.
For the shepherds of our souls, that they may have the strength to govern wisely the flock entrusted to them by the Good Shepherd.
Through the intercession of St. Stephen, that the deacons of the Church, especially those newly ordained for our diocese this weekend, may be true heralds of the Gospel in their ministry and service.
For the whole world, that it may truly know the peace of the Risen Christ, especially for all victims of religious violence.
For our parish, that we may bear witness with great confidence to the Resurrection of Christ.
For our brothers and sisters who suffer, that their sorrow may be turned to gladness through the Christian faith.
That all of our beloved dead and all the souls in purgatory may come to the glory of the Resurrection.
O God, you know that our life in this present age is subject to suffering and need, hear the desires of those who cry to you and receive the prayers of those who believe in you. Through Christ our lord.
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