In today’s first reading from the Acts of the Apostles we hear the story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. The Greek word “martyr” means witness. In the beginning of Acts the risen Jesus commissions his disciples to be Spirit empowered witnesses: “But you will receive power when the holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses (martyres) in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8). Stephen, along with six others, are chosen by the Jerusalem community for the task of service (diakonia). Stephen is described as “a man filled with faith and the holy Spirit” (Acts 6:5). In today’s reading he is described as “filled with grace and power…working great wonders and signs among the people.” Stephen witnessed by his preaching and teaching as well as working great signs and wonders.
Stephen also witnessed by his death following in the way of Jesus. Like Jesus before him, Stephen is accused of blasphemy by false witnesses. Like Jesus, even in death Stephen shows his forgiveness and faith in God:
Jesus: “Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:45)
Stephen: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60)
Jesus: “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit” (Luke 23:46)
Stephen: “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” (Acts 7:59)
A martyr or witness is one who follows in the footsteps of Jesus, following his way of healing, of forgiveness, and of sacrifice. Death is only one way of being a martyr or witness.
All of us have been commissioned by Jesus to be his witnesses in the world. Through our baptism we have been empowered by the Spirit to follow Jesus’ way of healing, forgiving, and sacrifice. As we often sing at mass: “Go forth and witness, you can be a witness.”
Image: “Stoning of St Stephen” by Lawrence OP is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.