Martyrdom has been an important aspect of early Christian History. The Book of Apocalypse depict the travails of the early Christians in the hands of the Pagan Roman Emperors. Indeed in various history of the Christian period martyrdom has been a way to demonstrate the way the Lord loves His people. Even in our modern times we still observe this phenomenon of grace. One very poignant story that inspires me was the story of Maximilian Kolbe. While as a youth he was given that vision of the blessed Virgin Mary, where Our Lady offered him two crowns, the white and red crown. The White represent purity and the red represented martyrdom. Without hesitation the young Kolbe chose both. And indeed later in life he will receive the crown of Martyrdom in the hands of the Nazis. Today we see this phenomenon. We particularly remember the Christians in Iraq and in Palestine. Let us offer them our sincere prayer so that the Lord will give them strength and that this will become an opportunity to show love. That we as Christians do not wish anyone harm and that we bless our enemies instead of cursing them. Like Jesus we ask the Father to forgive them, just as we also ask for forgiveness. For Christ said, Love will cancel a multitude of sin.Prayer: Dear Lord, Father of all consolations, we bless your name and we honor you. We especially lift up to you our brothers and sisters in Iraq, in Palestine and in other places where they are subjected to persecution and some have suffered martyrdom. Give them your consolation and peace. May the blood that have been spilled in the Name of Christ serve as a way to put a stop to all forms of violence of humans against humans. May this experience serve to purify our faith and strengthen our resolve to believe and to love. Let our prayers and sacrifices ascend to your glory in Jesus name. Amen.
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