Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.
Acts 8:56
I believe this will be the first 4th of July I will spend tucked away from any gathering, though the wren still chatters out my window and the slick-back cricket serenades somewhere near. My isolation is a cautious act, after six days of a virus. My first thought is not to pass anything along. Yet, the next thought is how I will miss the family celebration.
The 4th is a day of family picnics and children giggling. It a time to reflect on God’s graciousnesses on this country. And of, the once great history of freedom sought after by godly men facing their own untimely fate.
Stephen was a man of great freedom. His freedom was in Christ. He stood in his faith at the fringe of his death. In the midst of an angry mob, he found solitude in the history of his faith. He brought forward a boldness in truth that Jesus was the long awaited Savior and that many would reject Him.
The book of Acts tell the story well. Stephen seemed to face his painful demise as a feather in a forceful storm. He let the strength of his faith carry him through the timely trial. He looked to the real goal. I may be spending a traditional American holiday alone, but those who walk with Jesus are never really alone.
Blessed Independence Day to all and enjoy your family time!
Patti Wolf 