On the Feast of Stephen

While Christmas may be considered over for some, in the liturgy it has just begun and ending only when we reach the feast of the Baptism of the Lord on January 13th. This day, following Christmas day, is the Feast of Stephen. It reminds us that Christ's coming into the world is to do battle with the Evil One, whom he will defeat on the Cross. The First Reading of today's Mass gives the account of Stephen's martyrdom. As the voice of Stephen describes his vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God, his enemies cover their ears, trying to shield them from hearing Stephen's revelation. They are filled with rage, a rage no doubt, that comes from Satan and all the fallen angels; enraged that they failed to destroy the Incarnate Son of God.

It is important that we hear of Christ's victory here at the beginning of his coming, for this same victory is ours to carry with us as we go forward into this year to come. No doubt, when we raise our voices to proclaim Christ, we too will be met with a measure of that rage. Let us not be intimidated or hesitant to profess our faith by the lives we live.