Readings for the Day:
Acts 7:55-60: Stephen was one of the seven men chosen by the apostles to serve tables so that the apostles could be free to serve the word (Acts 6:1-6). Stephen does more than distribute food, however. For his preaching of God’s word, he becomes the first martyr of the faith.
I Peter 2:2-10: Christ is the cornerstone of God’s saving work and the foundation of our lives. We are God’s chosen, holy people who continuously celebrate and declare the mercy of God we experience through Jesus Christ.
John 14:1-14: On the night that he is to be arrested, Jesus shares final words with his disciples. As the one through whom God is known, he promises to go before them and act on their behalf.
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2025 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— What does it mean to be a martyr? What can we learn from Stephen? (Acts 7:55-60)
2—How do you hear I Peter speaking to you and the congregation at this time? (I Peter 2:2-10)
3—What is Jesus inviting his disciples to know and do? (John 14:1-14)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Give us grace to love one another, to follow in the way of his commandments, and to share his risen life with all the world. Amen.