Right after Christmas, we recall the cruel martyrdom of St. Stephen. He was stoned to death after a confrontation with the Jews. He was one of the deacons who were chosen to help the apostles in taking care of those in need so that the apostles could focus on preaching and the administration of the sacraments. The example of St. Stephen is astonishing. One of those who approved of the stoning was Saul, who would become St. Paul later on. In heaven, there is no bad blood between Stephen and Paul. They both love God above all and each other. Both had his specific way to heaven and both were faithful to their calling, although there was a moment in their lives when they intersected and were at odds with each other regarding religious faith. Both are miracles of the grace of God, as we would also be, if we let God's grace do its work, and we only collaborate with God's Providence. The gospel today tells us about God's assistance for those who are persecuted for the name of Jesus Christ. They will not need to worry about defending themselves in these courts of persecution. The Spirit of the Father will assist them, providing the words to their mouths to defend themselves. They will experience what St. Stephen went through in defending himself against false accusations.
