Have Confidence In Bearing Witness To The Lord

Wednesday of the 3rd week of Eastertide 

Acts 8:1-8
John 6:35-40

The death of Stephen resulted in persecution against Christians. However, it marked the beginning of the spread of the Gospel to Gentiles. Tertullian, an early Christian writer, spoke of persecution, saying, “Kill us, torture us, condemn us, grind us to dust; your injustice is proof that we are innocent…The more we are persecuted, the more we grow in number; the blood of Christians is seed.”

Although Stephen’s death was tragic, it was not premature. He had completed the work God had planned for him. From God’s perspective, every life is of immeasurable value, and Stephen’s death was the seed that bore much fruit. The scattered disciples continued to preach the word wherever they went, fulfilling God’s plan.

Persecution is inevitable for believers, but we shouldn’t be surprised by it. We can prepare ourselves by studying how God provided grace to those who have given their lives for the faith.

We should stand in solidarity and pray for our brothers and sisters who are under attack. We can also be confident in our ultimate victory as we focus on the vision of heavenly glory and Christ’s advocacy on our behalf. God uses ordinary people to evangelize others. We must obey God’s command.

PRAYER

God of all creatures, look down and listen favorably to my voice, do not forsake me in my nothingness, restore unto me the joy of salvation, let my cry unto You be fortified by Your Spirit, and swiftly answer my supplications. Amen.

Fr Joseph Osho