Having celebrated the birth of the Christ child yesterday, today the church takes us in, what feels like the opposite direction. What is the reason behind this sudden abruptness? It is perhaps to remind us that faith in Jesus comes at a cost. St. Stephen was a deacon in the early church. He preached, took care of widows, performed miracles and debated competently with the Jewish religious leaders of his day (Acts 6:5, 8-10). Stephen was put to death because of what he preached. St Stephen gave his life freely for the gospel because he believed that, like his Lord, he too would be raised to life. Today’s Gospel reading opens with Jesus saying “Beware”. It is in sharp contrast to what we heard yesterday. Jesus is warning his disciples of the price they need to pay if they are to follow him wholeheartedly. While we receive gifts on our journey with the Lord, there are also crosses that we must carry. Jesus will give us the grace and strength to face each day especially when life is challenging.

PRAYER: Abba Father, give me the strength and courage to follow your commands. Amen.