Today’s feast of the death of Saint Stephen, which comes a day after the celebration of Christmas, is a stark reminder of the cost of disciples that Jesus talked about in today’s gospel. He says, “Beware of men, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues, and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans. (Matthew 10:17-22).
The feast in honor of the sacrifice of Saint Stephen is never a damper on the Christmas season but rather adds to the glorious solemnity of this Christmas celebration.
To be a disciple of Christ is an awesome vocation with great implications and blessings. Christ says that we are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. Hence, the world and its darkness will try to fight us. The world may destroy our bodies, but it does not have power over our souls.
The death of the Holy Innocents is a wake-up call. They gave their love to the newborn infant in Bethlehem.
We are called to give Jesus everything, holding nothing back, even if it means persecution and death.
May we remain steadfast as we follow in the footsteps of Christ. May the birth of Christ be a source of grace and courage in our spiritual growth and journey of faith. May you and I follow the Lord readily and willingly, without reserve.
Have a wonderful Week
