▶ Listen to Today's Reading
Today's reading, then a short explanation, then a closing prayer — all one recording.
💭 What This Means
Today we witness the church's first internal challenge and its first martyr. As the number of disciples grew, a practical need arose to care for neglected widows. The apostles wisely appointed seven Spirit-filled men, including Stephen, to serve, freeing the apostles to focus on prayer and the Word. Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders, but his boldness provoked opposition. He was falsely accused and brought before the council. There, Stephen delivered a powerful sermon, recounting Israel's history of rejecting God's messengers, culminating in their betrayal and murder of Jesus, the Just One. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Stephen saw heaven opened and Jesus standing at God's right hand. For this testimony, he was dragged out and stoned. As he died, he prayed for Jesus to receive his spirit and for his persecutors to be forgiven, echoing his Lord. This moment of sacrifice, with Saul of Tarsus present, tragically sparked a great persecution, scattering the early church and setting the stage for the gospel to spread further.
🙏 Let's Pray
Lord, we are humbled by Stephen's faith and courage. Thank You for his example of serving, speaking truth, and even forgiving those who persecuted him. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, just as You filled Stephen, so we might boldly live for You, even in difficult times. Help us to trust Your plan, knowing that even persecution can spread Your good news. In Jesus' name, Amen.