Homily: Third Tuesday of Easter

Homily: Third Tuesday of Easter (Acts 7:51-8:1) “Imitating Jesus”

Stephen was the first martyr of the church. But what could we say beyond that? Did he just die because he believed in Jesus or was there something more?

There was something more than that. He died “like” Jesus. His passion and death followed the pattern of Jesus’ passion and death.

He was arrested like Jesus. When he was tried before the Sanhedrin he kept his composure. When he was asked questions, he answered with a simple eloquence like Jesus did. He showed no fear and was not the least bit defensive.

When he was taken to the place of execution, he again showed the bravery Jesus did. He received a vision that Jesus did of God coming to take him into paradise.

When he died, he did not curse and swear at those who put him to death. Instead, he forgave those who were executing him just as Jesus did. His death patterned after the death of Jesus in every way.

We all have moments when we are personally attacked. We have times when people lash out at us and persecute us. How do we respond? Do we retaliate? Do we complain to anyone who will listen? Or do we try to place ourselves in the father’s hands trusting that he will take care of us and that he will correct whatever injustice that we may be experiencing.

The quality that Stephen displays above everything else is serenity. If we can be serene during times of struggle, we have found the peace that Stephen did when he experienced martyrdom.

Reflection Questions:

1.    How was Stephen’s death like that of Jesus? Were there other martyrs whose death resembled Jesus’ death?

2.   Am I serene when I am attacked? Is that possible?

 Dear Parishioners,

            Remember that this Sunday at 11 a.m. we will commemorate the 100th year since our church was built. There will be a special Mass and there will be a reception to follow. We will also have a display of artifacts from our archives. Come and join us.

            May our Lady of Peace pray for all those suffering because of conflicts around the world.

            Fr. Mark