A Good Example

 

Today is the Feast of St. Stephen. I remember getting pelted with walnuts on this day every year when I was growing up. My mother’s family is Polish and they have a tradition where the women and girls of the family throw walnuts at the men and boys in commemoration of the stoning of Stephen.

 

There is much to think about and emulate in Stephen’s life. He is described as “a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:5). He must have been responsible and possessing a servant’s heart as he was one of the seven men chosen to oversee the daily distribution of food. Stephen is also described as “a man full of God’s grace and power…[who] did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people” (Acts 6:8). He was bold in giving witness to God even though he knew it would likely cost him his life. While he was being stoned, Stephen asked God to forgive those who were about to take his life.

 

As we begin this Christmas season and get ready to start the new year, we would do well to try to be like Stephen. We can seek out ways to serve and be responsible in whatever ministry we have committed to. We can ask the Holy Spirit to guide us in all we say and do, to give us a word that lifts up all those we come in contact with. We can be bold in our words and actions and humble in our service. We can strive to be peacemakers, quick to forgive whoever may have hurt us.

 

May God bless you in this Christmas season and in the year to come!