Jan. 31, 2014

Acts 7:  ⁶⁰ 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.

It is done.  Stephen has told them the story of their ancestors, and he has made it plain that he believes in the same God the Sanhedrin is supposed to uphold.  Then he finishes the tale by informing them that they are much like their ancestors, who killed the prophets.  They are even worse, b/c they have killed God's only son, their Messiah.  They "gnash their teeth," grab him, and take him out to stone him to death.  He sees the Trinity at his death, and he is very merciful to his persecutors.

Stephen was quite a guy.  He understood so much, he was so brave, and he was so merciful.  How can any of us expect to ever live up to a standard like he set?  I don't think I can.  I know my limitations, and I like my comfort.  Would I give all that up to represent God?  I don't think so. 

Prayer:  Forgive me, Lord, for being a fair-weather Christian.  I know I don't step out of my comfort zone as I should.  I am not as brave nor as merciful as I should be.  Strengthen me for all the work You would have me do.
Amen