By Jabari Beckford
Throughout history, there has been an established track record of young Christians who courageously defended their faith, even at the expense of their earthly lives. These youths have left an indelible mark both in time and eternity through their steadfast commitment to the faith of Jesus Christ. This article highlights their stories alongside complimentary scriptures to strengthen and inspire, especially youth readers.
Saint Agnes of Rome:
St. Agnes, though a youth, is one of the most revered Christian martyrs in history. At age thirteen, she refused to deny her faith and marry a rich Roman non-believer. She was truly unmovable in the face of threats, imprisonment, and death, declaring her love for Christ until her last breath. (…Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake…Matthew 24:9).
Saint Lucy of Syracuse:
St. Lucy lived in the 3rd century AD, a time of intense persecution of Christians. She vowed to remain a virgin and dedicated her life to serving God, but her mother had arranged for her to marry a young man from a wealthy pagan family. Upon discovering her commitment to Christ, he reported her to the authorities. Despite severe repression and torture, including eye gouging, Lucy stayed faithful to God until her oppressors slaughtered her. (…I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service… Romans 12:1).
Saint Perpetua and Saint Felicity:
As in the case of those previously mentioned, both women were imprisoned for refusing to renounce their Christian faith. Amidst enormous pressures, including the prospect of leaving their newborn babies, they stood by their beliefs. (…Women received back their dead, raised to life again. There were others who were tortured, refusing to be released so that they might gain an even better resurrection…Hebrews 11:35). Their unwavering courage and sacrifice continue to inspire Christians to be steadfast, regardless of the consequences.
Saint Kizito:
St. Kizito, a young Ugandan martyr, lived in the late 19th century during the reign of King Mwanga II, who reigned with terror in Buganda, demanding others to renounce their God. Nevertheless, Kizito defied him, remained chaste, and maintained his Christian beliefs. King Mwanga saw it as a direct challenge to his authority and so ordered the execution of Kizito and his companions. They were arrested, beheaded, and burned. (…Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshipped the beast or his image and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. Revelation 20:4). His martyrdom played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in Africa, mainly Uganda.
Cassie Bernall and Rachel Scott:
“The Columbine Massacre” was a school shooting and attempted bombing that occurred on April 20, 1999, at Columbine High School in Colorado, USA. This tragic event birthed two young Christian martyrs: Cassie Bernall and Rachel Scott. These girls were targeted by their classmates because of their strong faith in Jesus Christ. Faced with impending death, they boldly affirmed their belief in God when asked. (…You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives, and friends; and they will put some of you to death. And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake… Luke 21:16-17).
CONCLUSION
These stories are sharp reminders of the power of the faith of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit in us gives grace to not only embrace suffering but to overcome unimaginable adversities. Though some of us may not be martyred, we must agree with Jesus that persecutions and hardships of all kinds are a staple for all who live and walk in the Spirit (John 15:18–20). Take heart in the reality of God’s goodness, sovereignty, and prudence. Sufferings and sacrifices in His will are never in vain. Jesus did all this and is now seated in glory.
Be steadfast and endure with and like Him to the end. You’re in good company!
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