Sat, May 2, 2009
standing ovation
It's obvious that Stephen walked in humility. He truly believed in this gospel he preached. He had sold out to the cause. The first martyr...and he receives a standing ovation from his Lord. Intense. But what stands out to me at this moment as I read this is how he truly was a disciple of Jesus- he lived (and died!) as Jesus did. He preached the word, he wasn't ashamed, he didn't hold back...but most importantly, with his last breath, he did what Jesus Himself did. He forgave. Understanding that withholding forgiveness actually separates us from God and becomes sin in our own hearts is huge. Being able to forgive even when you receive no apology or explanation, when no one bothers to "make it right" and when there is no vindication- that is ultimate humility. To be able to extend grace to those who don't deserve to receive it- that definitely deserves a standing O.