Remember your mercies, O Lord. — Psalm 25:6

Mass readings: Daniel 3:25,34-43 / Matthew 18:21-35 

Fierce Faith 

The 1998 movie “Elizabeth” opens with a group of Protestants being burned at the stake, by order of Elizabeth’s sister, “Bloody Mary.” Nearly impossible to watch, the scene captures the fierce pain and fiercer faith of these Protestant martyrs. I always tell my Shakespeare classes about the scene, readily admitting that it’s too brutal for the classroom. Nonetheless, I do talk about the scene because it so captures England’s agony as the country was dragged through religious upheavals. 

Watching the scene convinces me I’d never have the nerve to endure torture. I couldn’t suffer the flames, let alone sing in them as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego do in Daniel 3:24. I stand in awe of those who have died for their belief in Jesus Christ. 

Prayer: Bless those who have given their lives for love of You, Triune God.