Daily Catholic Mass Readings December 26, 2024

DAILY ROMAN CATHOLIC READINGS AND SPIRITUAL REFLECTIONS Thursday, 26th December 2024 ------------------------------------------------ THURSDAY, CHRISTMAS OCTAVE Feast of Saint Stephen, Protomartyr Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59 Ps 31:3-8,16,17 Mt 10:17-22 ------------------------------------------------ UNWAVERING FAITH AMIDST CHALLENGES Today the Church remembers St. Stephen, the first martyr, whose life and death show us what it means to have unshakeable faith even when facing great challenges. The first reading tells the story of Stephen’s bold witness to the gospel, which led to his death. His story invites us to think about what it really means to be a follower of Christ, especially when our faith is tested. Stephen’s courage is clearly seen as he stands before the Sanhedrin (the Jewish court) and speaks about how God’s promises are fulfilled in Jesus. His confidence did not come from just knowing a lot, but from his deep relationship with God through prayer and Scripture. His closeness to Christ gave him the peace to face his accusers with grace. When he looked up to heaven, he saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God, a vision that gave him the strength to endure the impending suffering. In his final moments, he echoed the words of Jesus, entrusting his spirit to the Lord and forgiving those stoning him. This act of forgiveness is a powerful reminder of the kind of love Jesus calls us to have. Pope Francis reminds us, it is not grand speeches that reveal our faith, but the willingness to surrender our lives to God and forgive those who hurt us. Stephen’s prayer, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them,” is an example of the radical love and mercy Jesus expects from his followers. Are we ready to stand firm in faith even if it means enduring suffering and persecution for it? Are we willing to offer forgiveness even to those who refuse to ask for it? Following Jesus is not always easy, but it brings the promise of eternal life and the joy of being in God’s presence. St. John Chrysostom, one of the fathers of the Church, advises us, “When you are in trouble, do not think that you are abandoned by God. He is closer to you than ever before.” May this truth reign in our hearts at all times, and may St. Stephen’s unwavering faith amidst challenges inspire us. Response: Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.