St. Narcissus - October 29th
Narcissus was an old man when he was made Bishop of Jerusalem, but he was still an excellent Bishop. Everyone admired his virtues-everyone except the wicked. Three of these enemies of the Saint accused him of a terrible crime. One said: "May I die by fire if it is not true!" The second said: "May I be wasted away by leprosy if it is not true." The thrid said: "May I be struck blind if it is not true." Yet no one believed their lie. The people had seen Narcissus' virtues crowned with miracles too many times to believe he could have committed such a terrible sin.
Although no once believed the wicked story, St. Narcissus used it as an excuse to go off to live in the desert. His whole trust was in God, whom he had served so lovingly. And God saw to it that the story of those three men was shown to be absolutely false! Narcissus returned to be Bishop of Jerusalem, to the immense joy of his people. Although he was even older, he seemed more zealous than ever. In fact, he seemed stronger than ever, too, for a few years. Then he became too old to carry on, and begged God to send him a Bishop to help out. Our Lord sent him another Saint, Alexander of Cappadocia. In great love and zeal, they ruled together, and Narcissus lived to be one hundred sixteen years old.
God never abandons those who trust in Him. When He permits me to go through some trouble, I will not despair. I will pray, instead, and keep calm. He has His ways to defend me.
