“Lest we be tempted to sentimentalize the mystery of Christ’s birth, the Church today sets before us the example of Stephen, first of martyrs…Bethlehem is the prelude to Calvary. We may not merely stand adoring at the crib; we must also follow to the Cross.”

–Magnificat Daily Readings

Two snippets from St. Stephen in Acts (not included in today’s first reading)….

“You stiff necked people…you are always opposing the Holy Spirit just as your fathers did before you.”

“You who received the law through the ministry of angels have not observed it.”

The Scripture passage goes on to say;” Those who listened to his words were infuriated…” Another version says the listeners were “stung to the heart.”

I can see why Stephen might have been stoned. Like the religious leaders he spoke to, I don’t like those judgments. But they do sting my heart.

It is TIME I accept that the living God desires to be welcomed, noticed, loved, served, followed and shared in my ordinary life.

St. Stephen, pray for us—not to be stiff necked. And not to miss the angels and the Incarnate One among us.