I own several books in my library detailing the lives—and deaths—of many martyrs. I read about them now and again because I am encouraged and challenged by their unwavering passion to follow Jesus come what may. For instance, the first martyr, St. Stephen, was known as a man of good reputation, full of the Spirit, wisdom and faith, who had plenty of grace mixed with power to spare, and spoke with wisdom and the Spirit (Acts ch. 6). In the next chapter, we read that he acted on what he believed, stood up to tremendous pressure to the contrary, stared death in the face while holding fast to his faith, and died in peace praying for his persecutors… while they hurled large rocks at him. In Stephen, as in other martyrs, we see real world examples of what it is like to be strengthened by the Holy Spirit and act like Jesus… even when the way gets dangerous. That is really what the world wants to see from the Church—the Spirit and Jesus. May it be so for you and me… a little more each day.
From My Heart,
Rev. Jeff Garrett