Saint Agnes was a 13 year old Roman Noble who was maryted for her faith in 304AD. She is mentioned in the Eucharistic Prayer Number One.
When I read scripture, I try to put myself in the shoes of the person who is speaking. Sometimes Jesus or Mary or an apostle or some old testament figure. Our person today is Saint Agnes who lived like us in a pagan world. She was thirteen when she was martyred. I am not sure I could give up my life for my Christian Faith at that age. She didn’t have television or the internet or the Bible as we know it today. ( Council of Nicea ) about 325AD. Printing press not until 1611 AD. I look at her faith and how did it develope in an ancient world. At 13 I was not mature enough in my faith to give up my life. I can seepeople like Saint Peter who actually saw the miracles of Jesus and heard His voice.
I hope I am not tested like Saint Agnes.
Our faith doesn’t depend on the internet but it depends on a relationship with Jesus. So does Agnes. Jesus has opened up so many paths for us. The same path that was open to Agnes is opened to us. He appointed twelve; they were to be his companions and to be sent out to preach, with power to cast out devils. Jesus didn’t just appoint 12 He appointed us as well. Jesus has given us the Bible and the internet , and our church communities to develope that relationship.
We are essential for it to continue.
The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure buried in a field. Saint Agnes found that treasure and we can too. It is our relationship with Jesus. He is our gateway to the Kingdom of Heaven.
In the field we now own there is the pearl of great price. It is the most valuable thing we own. Jesus spoke of the Kingdom of Heaven is all around us. We just have to look. Saint Agnes found that doorway to the Kingdom by the pearl buried in her heart with her relationship with Jesus.
God Love you Always
Bob Burford
PS: Please continue praying for all those with Cancer and their caregivers.
Picture credit: “‘Saint Agnes’ – mosaic end 13th century at ‘Sancta Sanctorum’ in Rome” by Carlo Raso is licensed under CC PDM 1.0
