St. Lawrence, Patron of Cooks

Today's short Gospel passage from St. John, 12: 24-26, presents the image of the grain of wheat which must die to produce fruit, the challenge to lose life in order to find it, to serve and follow Jesus. It is a fitting selection for the Feast of the Deacon Lawrence, who diligently served Pope Sixtus II, sold Roman Church goods to help the poor, defied Roman authorities and received the crown of martyrdom on the gridiron. He truly let the seed die and became a catalyst for the growth of the Church in Rome. Indeed, one of his prison guards, Romanus, having witnessed the faith and joy of Lawrence, became a believer and was martyred the day before Lawrence. Because of being roasted on the grill, he has been selected by chefs as their patron.
In our Marist Lore, Brother Lawrence, one of the first brothers, while not literally dying to spread the Word of God, did indeed die to comfort and convenience as he trekked weekly over the mountains to teach catechism. One can live out this Gospel without being subject to flames or sword. May our prayer, reflections and participation in the Eucharist help the seed planted within us die and produce new life and abundant fruit.
Bro. Rene