The Cost of Discipleship: Reflecting on St. Stephen’s Martyrdom and Our Faith
“But they cried out in a loud voice, covered their ears, and rushed upon him together. They threw him out of the city and began to stone him. The witnesses laid down their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul.” ~Acts 7:58
We go from celebrating the birth of Christ to celebrating the martyrdom of St. Stephen to symbolize the cost and perseverance required of those who follow Christ.
Jesus warned us that following the path through the narrow gate wasn’t going to be easy. Betrayal, shaming, criticism, persecution, and death are potential outcomes of proclaiming the Gospel.
While it’s a little dark, whenever I read stories related to martyrs, I attempt to place myself in their shoes:
- Is my faith strong enough to hold my ground?
- Am I willing to sacrifice valued relationships over my faith?
- Would I be okay if I lose my job because of practicing Catholicism?
- If I had a gun to my head, would I deny Jesus? Would I worry about my family?
- Am I fully committed to dealing with the consequences of following Jesus?
There’s no question that Christians today have it much better than two thousand years ago, but the persecution, shaming, criticism, and mockery are still prevalent and appear to be gaining ground.
But my objective isn’t to speak to the general culture of the day and Christianity reputation in it. My focus is on how ready I am to deal with the consequences of being Catholic. Will I proclaim his Glory until the end of my days?
My transparent answer is “I am less than a 100% certain but I am working to get there.”
Fortunately, it isn’t permanent doom and gloom. Jesus promises in Matthew 10:22: “You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved.”
As we prepare to live the rest of the liturgical year, let us ponder the ways we will embody our faith and endure whatever comes our way.
In peace,
~Juan
