From the Gospel according to Matthew 10:17-22

Jesus said to his disciples:”Beware of men, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues,and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans.When they hand you over,do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say.You will be given at that moment what you are to say.For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.Brother will hand over brother to death,and the father his child;children will rise up against parents and have them put to death.You will be hated by all because of my name,but whoever endures to the end will be saved.”

The Gospel of the Lord

I don’t even think about it.

Today, we honor Saint Stephen, who fulfilled Jesus’ prophecy exactly: betrayed and stoned by his own Jewish brothers. Why? Pride and envy—they couldn’t match his wisdom in debate. The first reading describes it this way: “They were furious in their hearts and gnashed their teeth in anger.”

In such moments, the Lord doesn’t want us to rely on our own thoughts, as our reasoning often differs from God’s. Instead, He desires the Holy Spirit to take charge and speak through us. This is what happened with Stephen, who praised God and peacefully surrendered his spirit while being stoned to death by his enraged brothers. Have you ever felt the sting of hatred from someone you love?

Applied to married life

Connie: Greg, have you ever let the Holy Spirit take control in situations where others are against you?
Greg: Yes, a few times. I’m always amazed at how I act and speak with a love that I could never manage on my own. It leaves me with an overwhelming sense of peace, joy, and hope. You know, Connie? It’s like a miraculous shift in my perspective, similar to the talks we give during retreats.
Connie: That’s so beautiful, Greg. I’ve seen you react in ways that make it seem like God’s glory surrounds you and fills you with His grace. You’re an inspiration to me when you love in moments where love isn’t returned.
Connie: All glory to God, Greg. All glory to Him.

Prayer:

Lord, may we stop relying on our own defenses and allow the Holy Spirit to guide and act through us. Praise to the Holy Spirit of God!