November 19

Acts 7-8 Stephen, the first recorded Christian martyr, died in much the same pattern as the Lord. He asked the Lord to receive his spirit, and he also asked God to forgive his executioners. A brave and heroic ending, Stephen represented the Lord admirably. And, as much as we are able to see the similarities, there is one glaring difference -- Stephen died, and he remained in the tomb, while Jesus died, was buried, and then arose. He who was completely dead was completely alive three days after His death! Because of His resurrection, Stephen, along with all his fellow Christians, will experience a resurrection into God's heavenly home!