Stephen’s Prayer                      He is Risen!    Happy Easter!                 April 4, 2010

Then he knelt down and cried with a loud voice,” Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep. Acts 7:60 (NKJV)

This verse telling the end of the story of Stephen being stoned to death, reminds me of the words of Jesus as He was crucified, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:34 (NKJV) In the moment of the greatest sin and hatred directed at them, their thoughts go to the salvation of those who are responsible for their suffering. Could I ever be that forgiving? I honestly don’t know. In fact, I seriously doubt it. The strength of faith and love for their neighbors is a glaring challenge to us to try to follow their example. The many grievances, large and small, that are placed upon us by our neighbors are nothing compared to the suffering and death put upon Jesus and Stephen. We are called to forgive that we may be forgiven. I am humbled to think that Jesus would willingly accept the suffering and death He endured for us to give the salvation we need as “less than perfect” humans. It is the proof of the unconditional love we receive from God.

He is risen! There are no sweeter words to comfort us in our sinfulness. Easter Sunday brings the hope and love that we, as children of God, have received as a gift. Hallelujah!

Prayer:

Father in heaven, You have blessed us with forgiveness in great measure, even though we fall short of the examples of Jesus and Stephen. Help me to strive to be more like them. I pray for the wisdom and strength to be more forgiving of my neighbor. I pray that my neighbor may be forgiving of me when I have hurt them, especially when I may have hurt them unknowingly. We rejoice in the gift of your Son and the salvation He brings to us. Thank you, Lord! In Jesus, name we pray. Amen