The Apostle Stephen gives us many great lessons of virtue along his way to martyrdom. Stephen trusted in the words of Jesus in chapter 10 of Mathew’s gospel: “When they hand you over, do not worry about what you will say or how you will say it. When the hour comes, you will be given what you are to say. You yourselves will not be the speakers; the Spirit of the Father will be speaking in you.”

Through Stephen’s faith and perseverance, he welcomed the power of the Holy Spirit. As he was being stoned, his persecutors could not withstand the wisdom and the spirit with which he spoke. But filled with the Holy Spirit, he looked intently to heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God and he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” He then fell to his knees and cried out in a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them. And with that he died.” (V59-60).

We all have the same access to the Holy Spirit. Let us welcome the Holy Spirit into every aspect of our lives. Let us “stir into flame His presence within us” (2 Timothy 1:6). Holy Spirit, please help me.