Today as we celebrate the feast of Saint Stephen, we are reminded of a deeper calling in our lives. Saint Stephen is considered to be the first person to be martyred for his faith. His act of martyrdom is an important part in the story of conversion of Saint Paul. In the early Church, Saint Stephen served as a deacon, ministering to the poor. Martyrdom may not be our ‘cup of tea’. But it is a response given from one’s heart to a deep experience of the love of God. Today’s readings remind us, that to say yes to the Lord Jesus, is to say no to many things of the world. This calling is placed in our families, workplaces, schools, and in our personal lives. It is about who we choose to honour and love every second of our lives. Is it our friends, our family, ourselves, or is it God above all of the others? This will result in rejection, in persecution and challenges. In today’s Gospel proclamation the Lord Jesus assures us, that when that day comes, the Holy Spirit Himself will give us the words to speak.

Prayer: Abba Father, fill our hearts with the fire of Your love to be a witness to our faith. Amen.