"And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit" Acts 7:59
Stephen is passing through the fire of Jewish hatred. But God is faithful to his faithful servant and martyr and opens the Heavens to him showing him Jesus standing at the right hand of His glory. The cry of Stephen was "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." His prayer was like that of Jesus who said, "Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit" (Luke 23:46). What a testimony to the Deity of our Lord! Only He who gave the spirit could receive it. To depart and be with Christ was far better for Stephen and it will be for us when in His own good time He calls us.
Lord Jesus, help us to witness a good confession, gladly facing any foe, even death that, like Stephen, we may glorify Thee whether in life or death. Amen.
