Finding Courage in a World Adrift

St. Stephen: A Timeless Call to Courage

Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is commemorated on December 26th, the second day of Christmas. It's a day for believers to visit loved ones and offer their congratulations. Recognizable by the olive branch signifying his martyrdom and the stone he carries, a symbol of his stoning, St. Stephen was one of the seven deacons chosen in the early Church.

But why does the world need St. Stephen, or figures like him, today?

After Jesus' death, Stephen bravely preached His teachings, an act that led to his conviction for blasphemy and ultimately his death by stoning. Without individuals like Stephen, willing to spread knowledge and truth, even in the face of persecution and death, Jesus' message could never have flourished.

History teaches us that all great achievements, all nations, are built upon sacrifice, exceptional courage, and selflessness. Think of the Croatian defenders and volunteers in the Homeland War, fighting alongside the first Croatian president, Dr. Franjo Tuđman, for the very existence of their nation. Nothing truly great, no positive change, can be achieved without those who are willing to fight and even die for their ideals. The era of pragmatism and materialism must give way to a time that seeks out new heroes, modern-day St. Stephens, who are bold, upright, unwavering, and fervent in their commitment to building a better world.

The past four years have been a time of global upheaval: pandemics, wars, shifting worldviews, gender ideology debates, "woke" culture, climate anxiety, natural disasters, and widespread suffering. We've seen the rise of a pragmatic mindset, embracing progressive ideas that often exclude God, marked by arrogance, greed, and materialism. Many in positions of power, attained without the necessary knowledge, skills, or character, seem to lack a moral compass and a broader understanding of culture and history. Is it any wonder, then, that we find ourselves in such a state of turmoil? What else can we expect from those who prioritize personal gain over genuine service?

Yet, in the midst of this consumerist, materialistic age of crony capitalism and a resurgence of socialist ideas, there exist modern-day St. Stephens. They may be marginalized, silenced, and overlooked, but they hold onto their values and principles.

Fortunately, this dark period seems to be nearing its end. We are gradually moving towards the light, symbolized by the upcoming inauguration of Donald J. Trump as the American President on January 20, 2025. He, too, represents a kind of "Stephen," a figure who has faced opposition and even attempts on his life. His leadership, we hope, will restore balance and usher in an era of peace and prosperity, a "Golden Age."

This is the light at the end of the tunnel we eagerly await.

To overcome the challenges of our time, we need individuals who embody the spirit of St. Stephen. Let us strive to be Stephens in our own communities, beacons of courage and conviction, rather than those who cast stones.

Happy name day to all Stephen's, Steven, Stjepan, Stipe, Štefi, and everyone who shares variations of this noble name!

Author: Anita Prka Đurašić