While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”  Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep. 
Acts 7:59-60

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
Luke 23:34

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Long ago and far away, I lived for many hours a day in a magical kingdom called, “school”. Many of you may disagree with my perspective  but I found it magical because I got to witness the beautiful process of learning how to read. It often happened for my students right after Christmas vacation.

But one day, I found myself in a cozy meeting with another teacher friend and a mom who was worried that her young one was having a teeny bit of difficulty with the reading and writing process.  Suddenly, my teacher friend pipes up in the middle of the conference, “You don’t really need to worry about it. I never liked to read either.”

“Blasphemy, you evildoer!”, I cried (I really didn’t say that, but I thought it, and I’m sure I sat there with my mouth open). 

Instantly, my teacher friend became my archenemy—after all, I was trying to convince the mother that this little girl needed to read more, not less. I knew that to become a good reader, more reading is required. I felt like my friend was throwing stones at me and so much of what I believed in. I couldn’t forgive her. 

Today’s Scripture talks about a very serious matter. Non-believers were throwing stones at Stephen for being a Christ-follower. And as he was being killed, he said, 

“Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” 

It is almost exactly like the words Jesus used when the Roman guard crucified Him on Golgotha Hill. Both Stephen and Jesus prayed for their enemies. We need to imitate Jesus and Stephen. 

So, all those years ago, did I forgive my teacher friend? No, sadly, I did not. But Jesus continued to work on the hardness in my heart, and I finally forgave her for contradicting what I had said to this parent long ago in a far-away kingdom. 

I need to examine my life for sin continually, and Jesus reminds me often of my past sins. He also provides daily reminders when I need to forgive. Often I talk, talk, and talk with Him. However, it is then important for me to sit and listen, listen, listen to His advice. He forgives me and often asks me to apologize to someone in my life. It is a magical process that I never want to go a day without. 

Next Steps

Take a few moments today to pray, asking God to examine any debris hanging out in your heart. Ask Him  to show you if there is someone in your past or present that you haven’t forgiven.

Remember, throughout this series we’re reading the book of Acts as a church. Take a look at the reading plan and join in (it’s never too late)!