Readings: Feast of Saint Stephen, first martyr | USCCB 

Commemorating the martyrdom of Saint Stephen just a day after celebrating Christmas feels a bit like spiritual whiplash. The birth of Jesus which is marked by joy, light, and love is immediately followed by talk of persecution, hatred, and death. Though the themes of these two feast days seem to contradict one another, perhaps we are being invited to see that they also complement each other in some important ways. 

The familiar hymn “O Holy Night” portrays the contrast beautifully. Its early lines go, “Long lay the world in sin and error pining, Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth. A thrill of hope – the weary world rejoices.” The joy of Jesus’ coming is felt that much more because of the darkness that is present in his absence. Our soul comes to life with the hope that he brings, knowing that we are not constrained by the errors of the world or the sin of our own hearts now that the Savior has come. 

The next verse goes on, “In all our trials born to be our Friend. He knows our need – to our weakness is no stranger.” Though we may feel embarrassed, angry, or ashamed by our weaknesses, Jesus is not surprised or scandalized by us. He has come to accompany us in our neediness if we allow him to. We are not meant to face our trials alone. 

Stephen knew the truth that he was not alone through his own trials even as he was stoned to death. As we face the sin in the world and within ourselves, may we look intently to heaven for strength. To have our Friend is the thrill of hope in a sometimes weary world. 

Michelle Rash, Program Manager for the Terrence J. Murphy Institute for Catholic Thought, Law, and Public Policy  

The Campus Ministry Seasonal Reflections are offered during the liturgical seasons of Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter. We bring a variety of voices from Students, Faculty and Staff. The perspectives expressed in these reflections are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Campus Ministry.