Read: Acts 6:8–15
And all who sat in the council looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel. Acts 6:15
Stephen had been dragged before the religious leaders in Jerusalem, and he had been charged with blasphemy and leading people astray from traditional Jewish faith and teachings. Within moments, and after a stirring personal defense, Stephen was stoned to death. The end of Stephen’s life was imminent, and yet, we are told his countenance was angelic in the face of persecution. The holy glow about Stephen was reminiscent of Moses’ face shining like the sun when he descended from Mount Sinai after an encounter with God.
When we open our lives up to God’s presence, when God’s love flows through us, when we are willing to be moved by God’s Holy Spirit no matter where it takes us, we reflect Divine Light and Truth to others. Even in the face of persecution, we radiate that Divine Presence in ways that are visible to those around us.
Do you glow with God’s presence?
Lord, draw me close to You so that your presence shines through me. When I am challenged, when I am bullied, when I am unjustly accused, allow my countenance to demonstrate something other than defensiveness. Allow my life to exude the generosity and love that I have received from You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.