Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:35 (NRSV)
Devotion
Justin was a significant proponent of the faith in the first half of the second century. He was born near modern Nablus, in Israel, the site of ancient Shechem. He studied philosophy and religious faith. Justin became a Christian once the scriptures were revealed to him by a man of Christian faith. Justin taught Christian philosophy at Ephesus. In 135 he appeared in Rome, making two famous defenses of Christianity to the Emperor Antoninus Pius. When he and others refused to make pagan sacrifices, they were scourged and beheaded.
Other saints touch our lives more directly. One saint brings her children to Sunday School and church every Sunday despite opposition from her husband. Another saint calls a lonely elderly neighbor every day at the same time to determine her welfare. Another saint never condemns his rebellious son, but rather welcomes him home when the son wants to amend his life and return to Christ.
Prayer
Gracious Lord, in every age you have sent men and women who have given their lives for the message of your love. Inspire us with the memory of those martyrs for the gospel, like your servant Justin, whose faithfulness led them in the way of the cross. Give us courage to bear full witness with our lives to your Son’s victory over sin and death. Amen.