“the World hates Christians for the same reason, which hated Jesus because He brought the light of God, and the world prefers the darkness to hide their crimes,” – said about this Pope Francis in the argument preceding the prayer “angel of God” in St. Peter’s square at the Vatican.
Dear brothers and sisters, good day!
the Joy of Christmas fills our hearts, when the Liturgy calls us to worship the martyrdom of St. Stephen, the first Martyr, inviting us to accept the evidence that he has left for us through his sacrifice. It’s a glorious witness, corresponding to the Christian męczeństwu, znoszonemu out of love to Jesus Christ; męczeństwu that are still present in the Church’s history, from Stephen to the present day.
the testimony told us today’s gospel (MT 10,17-22). Jesus promises the disciples, the rejection and persecution of what you face: “you Will be hated by all for my name” (V. 22). But why does the world hate Christians? The world hates Christians, for the same reason, which hated Jesus because He brought the light of God, and the world prefers the darkness to hide their misdeeds. Recall that Jesus himself during the Last Supper prayed to the Father to protect us from the evil spirit world. Because of this, there is a contradiction between the gospel mentality and the mentality of the world. Imitating Jesus means to follow His light, shone in the night of Christmas, and the rejection of darkness in the world.
the First Martyr Stephen, being full of the Holy spirit, was stoned because he confessed his faith in Jesus Christ, the son of God. Only begotten Son that cometh into the world, encourages every believer that he chose the path of light and life. This is the deep meaning of His coming among us. Love for God and obedience to His voice, the deacon Stephen chose Christ, Life and Light for each person. Living in the truth has become a victim of the mystery of iniquity present in the world. But in Christ, Stephen won!
Also today, the Church is a witness to light and truth, experiencing in different places of severe persecution, until the final attempt of martyrdom. How many of our brothers and sisters in the faith, experiences of harassment, violence and hatred because of Jesus! Tell you one thing that today’s martyrs their number is growing, than in the first century. When we read the history of the first centuries, here in Rome, we read of many atrocities that doznawali Christian. I’ll tell you: it’s the cruelty today, and it’s much more in relation to Christians. Today we want to think about them and be with them, through our love, prayers and our cries. Yesterday, on Christmas day persecution of Christians in Iraq celebrated Christmas in their ruined Cathedral: this is an example of fidelity to the gospel. Despite the difficult experiences and dangers, they boldly testify that they belong to Christ and live the gospel by participating in small favor, the most neglect ed, making good to all without difference; show love in truth.
Making a place in our heart for the son of God, who gives us Christmas, the latest news happy and courageous will of the believer to follow Him as their sole guide, while residing in the mentality of the gospel and rejecting the mentality of the rulers of this world.
To the virgin Mary, Mother of God and Queen of martyrs, let us offer our prayer to be led and supported always on our path of imitation of Jesus Christ whom we contemplate the image of a corporal in the cave and the manger who is a faithful Witness of God the Father.
[after the prayer:] Dear brothers and sisters!
I Want to Express my deepest sympathy over the sad news about the crash of the Russian plane that crashed into the Black Sea. May the Lord comfort the beloved Russian people, and relatives of the passengers on Board-journalists, crew and the wonderful Choir and Orchestra of the Armed Forces. Let the blessed virgin Mary supports the ongoing operations of the investigative measures. In 2004 the choir performed at the Vatican on the occasion of the 26. anniversary of the pontificate of St. John Paul II: pray for them.
In an atmosphere of Christian joy that comes from the birth of Jesus, I welcome you and thank you for your presence.
to All of you who have arrived from Italy and different countries, I repeat the wishes of the world and the weather in the soul, let it be for you and your family a day of joy and brotherhood. Welcome and I wish all people named Stefan and Stefania!
In recent weeks I have received many requests from around the world. As that is impossible, so I answered not for everyone, today I have my sincere gratitude, especially for the gift of prayer. Thank you with all my heart. May the Lord reward you with his generosity.
– merry Christmas! Please don’t forget to pray for me. A delicious dinner and see you!
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