In the Gospel this weekend, we hear: “Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude and insult you, and denounce your name as evil on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice and leap for joy on that day!” This is a sharp reminder that some may reject us solely based on the values we have and the faith we live. Jesus tells us to remain steadfast for the reward far outweighs the current treatment. On February 23, in the year 155 AD, an 86 year old bishop named Polycarp felt first hand the wrath of those who persecuted Christians. Instead of denying the faith he professed himself a Christian; and for that, he was sentenced to death. Just prior to his martyrdom he exclaimed: “O Lord God Almighty, the Father of your beloved and blessed Son Jesus Christ, by whom we have received the knowledge of You, the God of angels and powers, and of every creature, and of the whole race of the righteous who live before you, I give You thanks that You have counted me, worthy of this day and this hour, that I should have a part in the number of Your martyrs, in the cup of your Christ , to the resurrection of eternal life, both of soul and body, through the incorruption imparted by the Holy Spirit. Among whom may I be accepted this day before You as a fat and acceptable sacrifice, according as You, the ever-truthful God, have fore-ordained, have revealed beforehand to me, and now have fulfilled. Wherefore also I praise You for all things, I bless You, I glorify You, along with the everlasting and heavenly Jesus Christ, Your beloved Son, with whom, to You, and the Holy Spirit , be glory both now and to all coming ages. Amen.” Let’s pray that we may have the same faith in the face of similar circumstances.