Crown of martyrdom

Red crown, when lifeblood pours out
For those called to stand for Christ
Until death, against the tyrants
Like Stephen the first
Or Maximilian the Priest.

White crown of a living sacrifice
A quiet martyrdom
An interior suffering
That only some will understand
And few have the faith to endure
With that lasting gift of holy fervour.

Standing by the Cross when all around
Have abandoned their Lord
For the safety and comfort
Of manmade goods and promises
Requires heroic virtue
With selfless abandonment
And Grace from Holy Sacraments.

We imagine it’s from ancient times
But even in our modern era
Many are laying down innocent lives
Their only crime to love God
With a desire for freedom
And openness to worship
For safety for their families
Free from torment and casualties.

When Laws afford no protection
For the people of God
Ridiculed for their faithfulness
And hearts in love with Christ
Who weep at the state of our world
Quietly we suffer an inward pain
And then rise up to start again.

Don’t grow weary in the battle
Or fear the crown of martyrdom
After all, it is the crown of glory.
Stay the course if martyrdom should come
Call on those who’ve gone before.
Viva Cristo Rey!!
Pray for us little Jose.