Spring in Kansas brings storm season, when dark clouds gather and warning sirens test our readiness. Many of us know that feeling when the sky turns eerily green, signaling it’s time to seek shelter or watch from the porch – depending on your strategy.
Consider moments when you’ve faced a different kind of storm – not weather-related, but when standing up for what you believe put you at odds with others. Our confirmands today stand at such a moment – publicly declaring their faith in a world that often views religious commitment with skepticism. Stephen’s remarkable story shows us what it looks like to maintain spiritual vision even when storm clouds gather.
Last week, we encountered the disciples on the Emmaus Road whose eyes were opened to see the risen Christ in breaking bread. Today, Stephen takes this recognition to its ultimate expression. While they saw Jesus in a comfortable meal, Stephen glimpses Christ’s presence in his moment of greatest danger.
In 1610, Galileo pointed his telescope toward the night sky and saw what contradicted accepted understanding. He published his observations despite knowing they would challenge both scientific and religious authorities. Like Stephen, Galileo saw something others refused to see and stood by his testimony even when it cost him dearly.
Stephen was among seven chosen to oversee food distribution in the early church. Scripture tells us he “stood out among believers for the way God’s grace was at work in his life.” His effectiveness drew opposition, leading to false accusations of blasphemy.
Standing before the Jewish council, Stephen recounts Israel’s history, building toward a powerful challenge about how prophets were consistently rejected. As council members rage against him, Stephen looks up and sees heaven opened and Jesus standing at God’s right hand. This vision gives him courage to speak truth regardless of consequences.
Two details stand out: First, Acts 6:15 tells us his face “was radiant, just like an angel’s” – even in danger, Stephen visibly reflected God’s presence. Second, his final words mirror Jesus’ from the cross: “Lord, don’t hold this sin against them!” Stephen doesn’t just talk about Jesus – he embodies Christ’s character.
As United Methodists, we see God’s transforming grace at work in Stephen. John Wesley taught that God’s grace doesn’t just save us in a single moment but continually works to transform us. When Stephen prays for those stoning him, we see someone growing toward what Wesley called “perfect love.”
We all face decision points that reveal what we truly believe. Sometimes these come when longtime faith meets new challenges – when teenagers ask tough questions, when our church experiences transition, or when prayers seem unanswered. Other times, we face practical choices – whether to forgive someone who hurt us, speak an unpopular truth, or give generously despite financial concerns.
The good news is that God’s grace both makes our faith possible and responds when we step out in faith. When Stephen faced deadly opposition, God didn’t stop the stones from flying, but provided something just as important – God’s presence. The Holy Spirit that filled Stephen gives us power beyond our natural abilities.
Think about those Kansas storms. When tornado sirens sound, we can’t stop the wind and rain, but we find shelter together. Similarly, God doesn’t always remove life’s storms, but offers shelter in their midst. The Spirit that enabled Stephen to forgive his killers is the same Spirit available to us today.
To our confirmands who will stand before us today: Today marks not just a culmination but a beginning. The public stand you’re taking doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing ahead. There will be moments when friends question your choices, when doubts creep in during late-night questions, when following Jesus means standing apart from the crowd. But remember Stephen’s example – in those challenging moments, look up. There you’ll find the same Jesus, standing ready to give you courage beyond your own capacity.
To the mentors who have walked alongside these young people: Your guidance doesn’t end today. In the years ahead, your lived example of faithful persistence will speak louder than any words. When these confirmands face those inevitable storms, your presence can remind them they don’t face them alone.
And to the families celebrating this milestone: Your homes and relationships are the first place these young people experienced faith. Continue creating space where questions are welcomed, where faith is lived authentically, and where grace abounds when we stumble.
Like Stephen gazing into heaven while facing the council’s fury, we all stand at moments where what we see determines what we choose. The storms will come – whether as graduating seniors facing uncertain futures, long-time believers navigating church changes, or any of us confronting decisions that test our convictions. But we stand strong together, with the promise that God’s presence makes all the difference.
Will you pray with me?
God of courage and vision, help us see beyond our immediate circumstances to your eternal reality. Thank you for standing with us in every challenge. Fill us with your Spirit so we might live with the same courage Stephen showed. Amen.
In crafting today’s sermon, I employed AI assistants like Claude and Apple Intelligence, yet the ultimate responsibility for its content rests with me. These tools offered valuable perspectives, but the most influential sermon preparation hinges on biblical study, theological insight, personal reflection, and divine guidance. I see AI as a supportive aid to enrich the sermon process while ensuring my own voice in proclaiming the Word of God.
Rev. Andrew Conard 