This is the way the church calendar works. Instead of telling us all about the birth of Jesus, letting us in on the laughter and love that surrounded that little manager in Bethlehem, we are brought to the story of Saint Stephen, the first martyr for Christ. 

That’s the way it works, and it is an inspiring story. Chapters 6 and 7 of Acts of the Apostles tell the story of Stephen and his devotion to Jesus and the early church. When you read these chapters, you will see that a large portion of the speech that Stephen gives to the Sanhedrin repeats the stories of Joseph and Moses.  

Stephen had been accused of being disloyal to Moses and his long speech is meant to relay to the council that he is not disloyal, but that they are the ones who have misinterpreted the message of these events and betrayed and murdered the Righteous One -Jesus Christ. It is a strong condemnation of the Sanhedrin and their actions in the killing of Jesus. 

No need to explain that the Sanhedrin did not like nor agree with these comments. In fact, as noted in Acts 7:54, “they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him.”  

Here’s another interesting note about Stephen: Saul, a notorious persecutor of the early Christians, who later became Saint Paul and wrote this account, was present at this execution and approved. This is a very worthy read to acquire a sense of what the early church was like and how it functioned. 

Previously, Stephen had been appointed by the church leaders to be the first deacon, with responsibilities to care for the widows and orphans of the congregation. In recognition of this care, Kenneth Haugh named the caring ministry which he started decades ago: The Stephen Ministry. For more information on this meaningful ministry contact: stephenministries.org       

I have witnessed the effects of the unconditional love practiced by Stephen Ministers here in my congregation. It is awe-inspiring. It is our own meager attempt to repeat the unconditional love that our Lord God has for each one of us.  

Happy Day After Christmas and St. Stephen’s Day! 

Terri