2Cor 9,6-10; Psalm: 111; Jn 12:24-26

St. Lawrence who lived a selfless life for Christ

St. Lawrence was a deacon in the early Christian church who was martyred for his faith during the Roman persecution of Christians in the third century. Known for his courage and unwavering devotion to Christ, St. Lawrence’s life serves as a powerful example of faith and sacrifice.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells his disciples, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.” These words echo the life and death of St. Lawrence, who gave up his life for the sake of Christ and ultimately found true honor and reward in eternity.

St. Lawrence’s life was a reflection of the teachings of Jesus in today’s Gospel. Like the grain of wheat that must die in order to bear fruit, St. Lawrence’s martyrdom was the ultimate sacrifice that bore much fruit in the spread of Christianity. His willingness to give up his life for his faith is a powerful example of the call to deny oneself and follow Christ. In his death, St. Lawrence found true life and eternal honor in the presence of God. As St. John Chrysostom said of St. Lawrence, “In his life, he was unknown to the world; in his death, he will be the admiration of all.”

The example of St. Lawrence and the words of Jesus in today’s Gospel challenge us to examine our own lives and priorities. Are we willing to give up everything for the sake of Christ, even if it means losing our own lives in this world? St. Lawrence’s life of sacrifice and service is a reminder that true fulfillment and honor come from serving God and others, not from seeking after worldly success or recognition. As St. Augustine wrote, “I will not say that I see the fallen grain, but I see the risen bread. I do not yet see the martyrdom, but I see the glory of one who has triumphed.”

In a world that is often focused on the pursuit of material wealth and personal gain, the example of St. Lawrence reminds us of the greater calling to serve God and others with selfless love. As we reflect on his life and the words of Jesus in today’s Gospel, let us be inspired to follow in the footsteps of the martyrs who have gone before us, giving up our lives for the sake of Christ and finding true honor and fulfillment in the kingdom of God. As Tertullian said, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.” May we be willing to sow the seed of our lives for the sake of the gospel, knowing that in losing our lives for Christ’s sake, we will truly find life eternal.