On Christmas Day, we reflected on the profound mystery of the birth of Jesus, our Savior. This event not only marks the coming of God into our world but also challenges us to recognize the significance of our own lives. In a sense, we are invited to reveal that we are in this world because we are deeply loved, cherished, and wanted by God. The birth of Jesus affirms that each of us has a unique purpose, rooted in God's unconditional love for us.

The feast of Saint Stephen, following so closely after Christmas, brings a more sober message. Just after celebrating Christ’s birth, we are reminded of St. Stephen’s story of the challenges and consequences of following Jesus. St. Stephen's life confronts us with the reality that discipleship requires action. We cannot remain passive; Jesus calls us to make a choice, to stand firm in our faith.

Saint Stephen is honored as a deacon and martyr in the Church. The word "martyr" means "witness," and we see the essence of a Christian witness in the life and example of St. Stephen. Pope Francis often reminds us that there are more martyrs than in the early Church. A witness is not someone who simply holds a good idea but lives and speaks the truth of God’s love.

In the Acts of the Apostles, we see Stephen unjustly accused yet filled with the Holy Spirit; he responds with wisdom and counters falsehoods with truth. St. Stephen lived and died for Christ. Like Jesus, Stephen entrusted his spirit to God and prayed for the forgiveness of his persecutors. He embodied a love that extended even to his enemies, showing us the greatness of God’s love.

May St. Stephen's intercession inspire us to embrace the Holy Spirit so that we, too, can become living witnesses of Jesus. May our lives reflect God's love and be a beacon of hope and faith for the world.