Saint Stephen

On this day after Christmas, the Church celebrates the feast of Saint Stephen, the First Martyr. This passage from scripture says it all, "You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved" (Matt. 10:22). The virtues of patience and perseverance are key because we are living on God's time and following the will that He has set for us. We may not know where the will of God will lead us, but we need to rely on our faith and trust to sustain us in all circumstances and at all times. The following commentary also puts this feast into perspective as we celebrate it at this time of the year: "Lest we be tempted to sentimentalize the mystery of Christ's birth, the Church today sets before us the example of Stephen, first of martyrs, icon of the Crucified. Bethlehem is the prelude to Calvary. We may not merely stand adoring at the crib; we must also follow to the cross" (Magnificat, 394). A very powerful statement, but it is true. As I mentioned at the Christmas Mass, "To get to the cross and the resurrection, we need to celebrate the birth of Our Lord." God became one of us to set us free and to lead us to safety. As we live our lives, our faith to the fullest, we pray for the intercession of Saint Stephen, so that we will not be afraid, but persevere in the journey to the kingdom!!! God Bless You!!!