Memorial of Saint
Athanasius, bishop and doctor of the Church
(Acts 7:51-8:1a; John 6:30-35)
When St. Francis of Assisi heard that some of his friars
were enticing Muslims into killing them, he put a stop to the practice. He insisted that the missionary norms of his
order prohibit both using arms to force conversions and taunting Muslims to
martyr missionaries. One wonders if Stephen
in today’s first reading should not have been prudent in this way.
Stephen is a Greek-speaking Jew. He comes from the Diaspora with little stake
in the Jerusalem temple. His diatribe
against it perhaps reflects the sentiment of his background. More than that, Stephen is a fervent convert
to Christ. He no doubt harbors resentment
for the people of Jerusalem for having executed Jesus. His outburst deserves some response, but
certainly stoning is uncalled for.
Stephen’s story presents us with a few lessons. First, we want to imitate his zeal to tell
others about Christ who is our comforter and helper. Second, we want to avoid Stephen’s
harshness. More people will be drawn to
Christ by reflecting his peace than by exhibiting Stephen’s fury. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, like Stephen
imitating Jesus, we want to forgive those who have offended us. We should begin now so that we do not forget
to do so at death.