April 15: Saint Eutychius, Martyr

Narraverunt mihi iniqui fabulationes, sed non ut lex tua. ps. 118.
Sinners have provided me with trifles, but nothing satisfies me, Oh Lord, as the knowledge of Your Will and Your law does.
Agendum assidue ut ex perpetua recordatione impressam cordibus nostris piam de Deo cogitationem, velut indelebile signum circumferamus. S. Bas. in reg. fus disput.
We should continuously force ourselves to put a pious thought on our hearts. One that can not be wiped away by God for it is in exact conformity to His Will.

Example:It is good to maintain this disposition in all situations. Saint Eutychius the Martyr found his martyrdom to be soft and sweet with this preparation. He was also prepared by the power and tranquility of the Bishop Redemptus, who advised him to await the tragedies that would befall his country with a certain resignation. Redemptus was making his rounds in the diocese, and he decided to rest for the night in a spot near the sepulcher of Saint Eutychius. He made his bed near the tomb, and Eutychius appeared to him that night as he was sleeping and assured him that the end of the World has already come. At the same time, Redemptus awoke and saw legions of fire in the air. These strange apparitions became tangible when the People of the North invaded Italy and threw the country into abject chaos, during which Bishop Redemptus met his demise. He came to know through experience to what extent a man can benefit by preparing for whatever my be through submission to the orders and the providence of God.

Practice: To maintain this firm foundation, do not let yourself be misled by the promises of the World. He is a liar who promises you much and delivers nothing; and when he does perform some sign, it is but a slight of hand. Thereby your hopes are dashed, and you are left in your discontent after having been deceived. You'll be better off throwing yourself into the arms of God. This will allow you to get what you desire, for by wanting nothing but what God wants, the most terrifying of circumstances will be favorable to you as you conform the plan for your life to God's Will. What glory and satisfaction it is to join your story to His Holy plan. Is this not the sole secret to making all of your days joyful?