How Dare We Fear

Under Islamic law, 9th century Spanish Christians were executed for sharing the Gospel. One such person was Eulogius of Cordova, whose grandfather would cover young Eulogius' ears during the Muslim recitation of prayer, instead reciting a psalm. Learned, Eulogius penned both Exhortation to Martyrdom and The Memorial of the Saints to encourage those condemned to die. Finding himself later in the same predicament, he nonetheless took the opportunity to expound the truths of his faith when on trial. He had been found guilty of protecting a young convert from persecution for her newfound faith. Exhorted to simply "say one word" and "afterwards resume [his] own religion," he instead said it was fitting that he "teach and present the faith of Christ as the way to the celestial kingdom."

Quickly beheaded for fear of hearing anymore, Eulogius had nonetheless made an eternal impact on his world. Even at the news of his execution, Leocritia, the young lady who he had protected, was unswerving in her commitment to Christ. Four days later, she was beheaded. Four days later, she was in the presence of Christ Himself.