Martyrs

We cannot be too familiar with the story of the martyrs. Thier sufferings secured our liberties. The brief reign of the wretched queen Mary was made ever glorious by the burning of some of England's noblest witnesses. Hooper ,Taylor, Saunders, Bradford, and Rogers, were among the first to suffer. Ridley and Latimer were chained to one stake at Oxford, and therefore bore testimony in one fire to the power of truth.

"My breakfast may be sharp, but I am sure my supper will be most sweet" said the noble Ridley. "I shall go to bed, and God willing , shall sleep as quietly tonight as ever I did in my life."

The next morning he and Latimer walked praying to the stake. Embracing Latimer , Ridley said ," Be of good heart brother, for God will either assuage the fury of the flames, or else strengthen us to abide it."

Then it was Latimer's turn to triumph . As the lighted torch was placed on the faggots, Latimer cried out , "Be of good comfort , Master Ridley , and play the man. WE shall this day , light such a candle , by God's grace, in England, that shall never be put out."

May we never be guilty of the dishonour of trying to put out the light of this candle ! May we and our children be enabled by God's grace to keep it brightly burning.!

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