With boldness, Stephen spoke,

image by Relaxation Works Co.

image by Relaxation Works Co.

the history of the Jews.

Telling of the failures,

and blessings God had used.

Recapped Moses’ story,

the details he knew well.

From birth to avenger,

fleeing to his return.

Then raised up as leader,

to trust God, he had learned.

Escape to the desert,

to wander forty years.

Foolish disobedience,

complaints to God’s own ears.

Tabernacle traveled,

in the desert with them.

Rested in David’s land,

then housed by Solomon.

The words Stephen spoke next,

angered hearts, fueling fires.

God lives not in temples,

and His Spirit, He requires.

You always resist Him,

just like your forefathers.

And you murdered the Christ,

you’ve judged with no lawyers.

As they heard Stephen’s words

they gnashed their teeth and groaned.

He saw heaven appear,

then was dragged out and stoned.

As the blows kept coming,

from his knees he cried out.

Forgive them please, Father,

receive my spirit now.

(Responding to Acts 7)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You do not dwell in man-made buildings, but in the hearts of everyone who invites You in.  Thank You that through Jesus, You made the way for us to have a relationship with You without having to follow a laundry list of rules and regulations.  Thank You that what You ask of us are two things – to love You, and to love people.  Forgive us for not doing those well, and teach us how we can love You and love people as You would have us love.  Grant us confidence and boldness in You, as You are our strength and security.  Teach us to forgive and extend grace like You.  May our love be the sweet scent of salvation to those who are seeking, so that they may find their hope in You.  Use us Lord, to touch hearts and lives.  Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

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