Paul “boasts” of his afflictions, not to be proud of them but to remind his readers that the Christian life can sometimes require suffering and sacrifice for a greater good.

Paul was addressing a community experiencing conflicts and differing loyalties. Every community of faith—including yours—has such divisions.

Stephen’s vision of Christ sitting at the right hand of God empowers him.

In a way, this weekend’s readings speak of the ideal and the real. Conflict hits the community in Acts, and responsible persons step forward to try to resolve it.

Acts talks about the appointing of “elders.” You are a leader of your community. How does your ministry gather the people and make disciples?

As a preacher, you, like Paul and the other apostles, can bring people to faith.

The disciples find themselves at a crossroad: They must strengthen their witness and attend to the business of gathering more souls for the kingdom, but they must do it against the strict commands of local authority.

The apostles entered very exciting and chaotic times after the death of Jesus. The risen Jesus breathed new life into their mission, and they found in themselves astonishing strength and power and a sprinkle of doubt. 

Today we begin our journey in discovering who Jesus truly is.

Jesus followed his mission faithfully, never questioning that he would be met after death by his Father’s welcoming embrace.