Winchester Cathedral, MMB
James, Stephen – and eventually Peter himself – were to die for Jesus. But this was a moment of desolation for his friend, the rock.
Scripture References: Jesus the Carpenter: Luke 2:51-52; Mattheew 13: 53-58; Call of the Fishermen: Mark 1: 16-20; Call of the rich young man: Luke 18: 18-25; Stephen: Acts Ch 6-7; James: Acts 12:1-3.
this looks like the end of a wasted life. He could have carried on as a carpenter, and we could have stayed by the lake, catching fish all our days. Good, honest, useful work: absolutely nothing wrong with that.
But Jesus said there was more to life than earning a good living. Sell everything, he told that rich lad, then come and follow me.
We followed him, at times a long way behind and not knowing where we were going. Look what happened to Stephen and James! Stones and the sword, more blood on the cobbles.
And yet Stephen saw Heaven opened, and Jesus there, with open arms, waiting. He is waiting for me, now.
Jesus, remember me, when you come into your Kingdom!
Let us pray for all who are facing a crisis in their faith or a relationship at this time, that they may be granted courage for the next step.
