‘Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.’ (Acts 6 - v8)

Reflection

These days, the Feast of Stephen is more often sung about in the carol Good King Wenceslas than celebrated in church. It has become Boxing Day, with its principal activities of sporting fixtures or shopping!! This is a shame as Stephen has much to offer us. He is chosen as a deacon - someone who is selected to minister to the physical needs of the church members - and he is chosen because of his gifts. He is full of the Spirit - of faith, grace & power. He does signs and wonders and is very wise. He is revealed as an ideal disciple who shares the fate of Christ.

Having celebrated the birth of Christ yesterday, we may feel too full for one more mince pie, but we will never feel there is no room for an extra helping of hope. Spiritual feasting is not about having consumed, but about being consumed by the love of God. This is what will make us a disciple as faithful as Stephen.

Lyn Hayes