March 15: Saint Longinus, Martyr

Omnes amici eius spreverunt eam, et faci sunt ei inimici. Lam. jer. c. I.
All of her friends have betrayed her and have become her enemies. Now let the creature trust solely in God.
Ponatur nobis primus gradus humilitatis, nolle dominari secundus, velle subiici: tertius in ipsa subjections quaelibet contumelias, et injuries illatas unanimiter pati. S. Bern. in sent.
The first degree of humility consists of not desiring to have control over others; the second is to desire to obey; the third is to constantly suffer all kinds of abuse and injuries in a graceful conformity to the loving Will of God. This is the way that brings us true consolation.

Example: Saint Longinus was the captain of the soldiers who guarded the Savior and who opened the Side of Jesus Christ with a thrust of his spear. The eyes of his spirit were healed by the wound of Christ, and his spirit became aware of the crime that he had committed as well as that which the Jews had committed. He was immediately compelled to proclaim the divinity of the Redeemer before a large assembly. He then withdrew to Cappadocia, and Pilate sent executioners after Longinus with the order to bring back his head. When the executioners arrived in Cappadocia, Longinus invited them into his home. They were unaware of the identity of their host. When Longinus finally revealed his identity to his persecutors, they refused to harm him so as to not violate the law of hospitality. However, Longinus encouraged them to carry through with their deed. Dressed in a white robe, he received the purple of martyrs. He gave his soul to Heaven and his head to Pilate.

Practice: Oh how the Children of Jesus Christ are generous! They prefer those who mistreat them. They do not cease to love those who have only ingratitude in place of affection. They suffer not only death, but they seek it out for the love of Christ Crucified. Lover of God, you shall be just as courageous if the Will of God fortifies you. You shall regard all men equally as your friends. If you have a preference, it will be towards those who give you the greatest opportunity to practice the virtue of patience. For the spirits who have been purified to this state, there will be nothing but days of joy.