St Stephen, First Martyr : Tuesday 26th December 2023

In today’s Gospel passage, Matthew presents certain sayings of Jesus about the hostility and persecution that the disciples would face from the Jews and Gentiles.

Jesus’ missionary instructions to the twelve apply to us, too. While the disciples were called to share in the mission of the Church, we, too, are called to do likewise. This mission also includes the path that led to Jesus’ death.

Similarly, as followers of Jesus, we, too, have to be ready to accept persecution and rejection in different forms that exist today.

In preparation, Jesus assured us that “The Spirit of the Father” would speak to us. We should not give in to despair when hated by all  (10:22). Even amid all sorts of trials, e.g. physical assault (10:17) and betrayal (10:17, 19, 21), we are urged to persevere till the end. By this, we believe that Jesus’ liberation message will always prevail.

As we celebrate the feast of St. Stephen, the first martyr, we see how Stephen experienced hardship and suffering, yet he persevered till the end when he was able to utter: “Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.”

When challenged by difficulties and obstacles, how do we overcome them? Do we turn to God for help, Who is always faithful? This calls for complete trust in the Lord.

“Dear Lord Jesus, we pray for a deepening of our faith that, with the courage of St. Stephen, we may be able to embrace whatever life brings to us, for we trust in You.” Amen.