Some fighting begins between the Christians Hebrews and Hellenists over the distribution of money to widows, and the apostles are called in to arbitrate.

They are unhappy at being disturbed from their work of preaching the good news, so appoint seven laymen to manage the assets of the growing church.

Stephen gets into a dispute with some powerful people, and is taken on trial. He runs through a potted history of the Israelites turning their backs on God, despite Him coming down to dwell with them on earth.

He is stoned to death.

Psalm 82 is challenging for me, particularly this bit: “I said, “You are gods and all of you are children of the Most High. But you shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.” Is this the Israelites, or is it the fallen angels? I just looked this up and found this fabulous explanation: http://www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm082-taw.htm

Dear God, Thank You for helping me quell the anxiety. Thank You for being there when I turn to You, even though I have often turned to worldly crutches first. Please forgive me, and help me to always turn to You first. Please help me understand Your love, Your kindness, Your joy, so that I may pass it on to others. Please forgive me for the words I said to S this morning, and please help me put it right. Please help me put my creative abilities to Your service. In Jesus’ name, Amen