Acts 7:55-60 (NASB)
55 But being full of the Holy Spirit, [Stephen] gazed intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God; 56 and he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened up and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” 57 But they cried out with a loud voice, and covered their ears and rushed at him with one impulse. 58 When they had driven him out of the city, they began stoning him; and the witnesses laid aside their robes at the feet of a young man named Saul. 59 They went on stoning Stephen as he called on the Lord and said, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!” 60 Then falling on his knees, he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them!” Having said this, he fell asleep.
Lord, on the second day of Christmas, we remember St. Stephen, the first of Jesus’s followers to be martyred for His sake. We are reminded to give gifts of service to others on this day, as Stephen was known for serving You by serving others. Inspire us by the Holy Spirit to serve You as Stephen did. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.