Daily reflection _ grace, power and wisdom


GRACE, POWER AND WISDOM
The way to glory in the heavenly Kingdom is through the Cross of Jesus Christ. If we want to share in His glory, then we, too, must take up our cross and live a Gospel life as His disciples.
Deacon John Ruscheinsky
The very reason the Son of God became flesh for our sake was to redeem us from sin and death itself. Jesus gives us new life as our heavenly Father's adopted children. The way to glory in the heavenly Kingdom is through the Cross of Jesus Christ. If we want to share in His glory, then we, too, must take up our cross and live a Gospel life as His disciples. God gives us sufficient grace to follow and to bear our cross with strength, courage and hope for the future.
Today, the Church honors St. Stephen. The New Testament doesn't give many details about Stephen's life. We know that he was one of seven deacons appointed to care for the poor and the hungry, as well as the widows and orphans of the early Church. In our first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we also learn about Stephen's grace and power, his wisdom and great wonders. And we learn that he was killed because of his faith, for He knew he had to carry his cross like Jesus did.
It's the day after Christmas and we hear carols ringing in the air. Nevertheless, Stephen's life takes us beyond the gifts opened, neglected, and left under the tree. He shows us our Father's gift of Jesus given to a poor and broken world. Our Saint's life offers us the opportunity to give of ourselves. By giving of ourselves, we make Christmas happen each and every day!
Unless Today The Word Be Made Flesh, Who Will See Him?