[The Mayor]

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Standing Ovation

February 10, 2011

Susan Boyle spent most of her adult life living with her cat Pebbles, caring for her aging mother, and singing in church. She certainly didn’t look like a musical superstar. That’s probably why the audience laughed at this unassuming middle-aged woman before she performed in a talent show. Undeterred, Susan faced the unfriendly crowd, sang beautifully, and went on to receive a standing ovation.

Stephen was confronted by a hostile crowd in the days of the early church (Acts 6–7). A panel of religious authorities listened to lying witnesses accuse him of blasphemy (Acts 6:13). Stephen responded by speaking the truth of God’s Word, which reinforced his faith in Christ. At the end of his speech, he said, “Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!” (7:56). Then the crowd stoned him (v.58). Jesus, who was watching from heaven, welcomed Stephen home.

Most Christians aren’t confronted with this much hostility. Yet we all need to “stand fast in the Lord” when the pressure is on (Phil. 4:1). We can’t let others silence our voice for Christ. Speaking up for Jesus does not always win the crowd’s favor here on earth, but it does ensure His approval in heaven, where it matters the most.

Stand up, stand up for Jesus, the strife will not be long;
This day the noise of battle—the next the victor’s song.
To him that overcometh a crown of life shall be:
He with the King of glory shall reign eternally. —Duffield

If you meet opposition, maybe it shows that you are doing something that counts.

Read: Acts 6:8-15; 7:54-60

Look! I see . . . the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God! —Acts 7:56

Bible in a year:
Leviticus 8-10; Matthew 25:31-46

[MEG33]

Good Morning To Amy's Place

Tulips In The Snow

We broke a record this morning..in the teens
A lovely 70 is predicted for Sunday..I'm so ready to
thaw out!
Wishing you a beautiful day

[MEG33]

Amen!
Hope you are enjoying time with your newly graduated son!

[jaycee]

Beautiful stories in our lesson today, Rus. Thank you for bringing God’s word to us everyday! And may God always bless you and Mrs. Mayor and your military son.

[geologist]

The bravery of Stephen! Worthy of praise, imitation, and the reality that Jesus is watching!

It has been my custom, to tell myself, I am choosing to be a peace maker. When really I am choosing to defer, or turn aside from making/taking a true stand. Usually I tell myself I did not change my belief in Christ Jesus, but really I am not demonstrating the faith of Stephen by any means. It is humbling. How about you?

We are ambassadors of Christ Jesus. Let us be true to our calling.

Father, help us in this day, in Jesus name amen.