When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul. While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep. Acts 7:54-60
“Yesterday we wrapped Christ in swaddling clothes; today, he clothes Stephen with the garment of immortality. Yesterday a narrow manger cradled the baby Christ; today the infinite heaven has received Stephen in triumph.”
Fulgentius of Ruspe (468-533) in Sermon 3.
I read this yesterday and it seemed fitting in light of our recent focus on Christ in swaddling clothes and lying in the manger. Take a moment and ponder the significance for each of us.
The day after Christmas is observed in the church calendar as the Feast of St. Stephen. It’s the day when we remember his triumphant service as the first martyr.
Consider the brevity of Stephen’s ministry. He gave one testimony before the Sanhedrin. He preached one sermon. He connected the dots for one audience. And that brief moment in history cost him his life.
But don’t miss the scene in heaven. Jesus stood at the right hand of the throne of God. The significance of this posture of service cannot be understated. Jesus worked, interceding for Stephen. Likewise He sees our service, stands and intercedes for us.
Also notice that Saul, who would become known as Paul watched all this unfold. That reminds us that God can convert even our most fierce opponents. See the triumph that awaits us. But we must risk everything to grasp it.
To live generously and triumphantly, we need to join the line. Two days ago, we celebrated that Christ came humbly to give His life as a ransom for many. Yesterday, we recall that Stephen gave his life as a martyr and witness to Christ.
And today is our day to give our lives in anticipation of the same triumph and immortality. Sadly, however, most people live only for this world and all it has to offer. What will you do? Jesus is watching.