St. John Before the Latin Gate - May 6th
St. John was the youngest of the Apostles. Jesus loved him with a special love because he was a virgin. He was the only Apostle who stood right near the cross when Our Lord was crucified.
By the year 95, St. John was the only Apostle still alive. All the others had been martyred. He was known and loved by all Christians for his great virtues.
At last, St. john, too, was arrested in the city of Ephesus during the terrible persecution of Christians ordered by the Emperor Domitian. He was taken to Rome and brought before the cruel Emperor. Even though the Saint was so old, the Emperor felt no pity for him. He commanded St. John to be whipped and then thrown into a pot of boiling oil. The Apostle’s face lit up with great joy when he heard the order. He wanted with all his heart to suffer for Jesus, Who died for us. And he was anxious to see his beloved Master again in Heaven.
But God worked a miracle to save St. John from the burning oil. It did not hurt him at all; in fact, when he was taken out, he looked better and stronger than when he was put in!
More furious than ever, the Emperor sent St. John into exile on the island of Patmos.
This St. John was the brother of the Apostle St. James. One day Our Lord had asked them if they could drink the same cup of sufferings he was going to drink. The two Apostles boldly declared they were ready to suffer anything for Him. Then Our Lord told them they would indeed suffer much for His sake. And so it came about, because both of them underwent martyrdom.
Those who keep themselves pure are especially loved and blessed by God.