We commemorate the martyrdom of Saint Stephen twice a year, on Tuesday of the third week of Easter and December 26. Each time of the year, the story calls us to remember a life offered to God in grace and the Holy Spirit. This holy deacon wished for his whole life and death to be offered up in the Spirit to the God who gave that first breath of the Spirit to Stephen.

Since our grand First Communion, we have been living and breathing this great “sign” of the Eucharist – the bread of life, the cup of blessing. This is the Eucharist; the gift we offer as baptized priests each time we gather. Yes, at our baptism the minister proclaimed us to be like Christ, as priest and prophet. Today’s Gospel – the great John 6, “Bread of Life” discourse, reminds us of Christ’s prophetic role and sign that gives life for the world. Stephen and other great men, women, and children continue to be martyred across the globe because of their Eucharistic faith, wishing to sacrifice for others, too.

His day’s stubborn, close-minded people could not take the veil off their ears, hearts, and minds to examine how the Holy Spirit offered them a new way of life and gave God glory. Then and now, this Easter challenge rocks human souls. As Christ’s risen body is received in Holy Communion, we are always connected to the food of past and present-day martyrs. We eat this life-giving bread and renewing wine to share in the sufferings of the Body of Christ. May we be strengthened for the challenges that await us each day.

How will my reception of Holy Communion shape me today?

Prayer

O Loving God, as we receive you in life-giving, bread, and wine, may we be strengthened for our prophetic mission. Unite me to the sufferings of our world and those who shed their blood still for the faith. Gather all your people to live and share their faith to build up your church and world through Christ our Lord.