St Lawrence - Deacon and Martyr

While very little is known about the life of St Lawrence, two stories always stand out in regards to him.  As a Deacon Lawrence was responsible for the fiscal and administrative mattes of the local Church.  The Roman Prefect, demanded that Lawrence turn over the wealth of the Church to the government.  Lawrence gathered together the poor, lepers, widows, and the sick, and presented them to the Prefect, stating that these are the riches of the Church.

Soon after Lawrence was arrested and sentenced to die, lying prone over hot coals.  Allegedly after some time he requested to be turned over, 'since he was done on one side.'  To be sure for Lawrence there was not fear; only trust in God's love and mercy.

In the Office of Readings today, St. Augustine reflects upon the life of Christ as one marked by obedience to God, and God's life, and of being "poured out" in love on behalf of divine love.  Quoting from St. Paul, Augustine notes that Jesus "did not deem equality with God something to be grasped at, but emptied himself in becoming a slave."  The ability to do so indicates an immense trust in God's love, there must be an intimate relationship here, and a firm belief that God will provide strength and courage.

I was reading a story about a priest who was working with Mother Theresa for some period of time.  On his departure he asked her to pray for him.  She had responded with the question, "What do you want me to pray for you?"  He responded that he wanted 'charity.'  Mother Theresa said that she would not pray for that, but for trust.  Mother Theresa commented that, "I have not obtained charity yet, but I trust in God."

Men and women like Lawrence are so overwhelmed with the Paschal Mystery, and the love that has been revealed by this mystery of faith, that they are able to do amazing things.  This includes standing against injustice, sitting with a dying spouse or child, and forgive in horrific situations.  Martyrs give us an indication that we are called to be like Christ.  Not just in being nice to people, but by being profound in our profession of faith.