Amen, amen, I say to you, you are looking for me
not because you saw signs
but because you ate the loaves and were filled.
Do not work for food that perishes
but for the food that endures for eternal life,
which the Son of Man will give you.
When Jesus does meet our temporal needs he reminds us that there are more important things about which we should concern ourselves. Whatever miracles we receive in this life are meant to prepare us for the life to come. They reveal who God is and help us learn to trust in his power. They are foretastes of the joy that we will one day know. The really important thing is not that we find the secret of perfect health or riches.
“What can we do to accomplish the works of God?”
Jesus answered and said to them,
“This is the work of God, that you believe in the one he sent.”
The martyrs may have seen many healings, miracles, and even resurrections. Yet they are not thereby confused. They don't mistakenly believe that this life was their greatest good, to be protected at all costs. Rather their simple belief in the one God sent, Jesus, the one on whom the Father has set his seal, allows them to give everything for the joy set before them. This is how Stephen can look so calm in a situation of utmost danger.
All those who sat in the Sanhedrin looked intently at him
and saw that his face was like the face of an angel.
We too can face our lives with peace like Stephen if we simply put our faith in Jesus.
Though princes meet and talk against me,
your servant meditates on your statutes.
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