Acts 7:55-60

“While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’ Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ When he had said this, he died.” vss. 59-60

Stephen, one of the seven persons chosen by the apostles to help with the distribution of goods to the needy, was eloquent and full of the Spirit. When challenged by Jewish opponents he preached a long sermon, recounting the history of Israel and accusing the religious leaders of killing God’s Chosen Redeemer. Infuriated by his accusation they dragged him out of the city and stoned him to death. Before he died, in a scene reminiscent of Jesus’ crucifixion, Stephen prayed that his murderers be forgiven. One of those murderers was a young man named Saul who appears not to have been moved by Stephen’s words.. In fact he doubled down on his persecution of Christians and even traveled to Damascus to arrest and imprison them.

We see here another remarkable demonstration of the power of forgiveness. Jesus made it the centerpoint of his ministry, and it obviously continued to be the strength of this amazing movement that changed the world. In an age where revenge and retribution appear to be making a comeback even among those claiming to be Christians, it’s important to remember what true Christianity is about. It’s not easy to forgive–we’d much rather get even. But our heritage of forgiveness has been sanctified by the blood of the martyrs, and we profane their witness with our desire for revenge.

Thought for the Day: What is the hardest thing I’ve forgiven?