Telemachus

A friend told me this story several days ago and it has been on my mind.

In the 5th century, a monk named Telemachus made a journey to the city of Rome. While he was there, he attended a gladiator game in the Colosseum. Hundreds of people had come to the game and they were enjoying themselves greatly as men fought each other for their lives. Telemachus, however, was appalled and could take no more of the violence. He ran down to the center of the arena and cried out for the violence to cease and even tried to separate the fighting men. The crowd was indignant that anyone would dare to interfere with their entertainment. With one accord the crowd rose up and stoned the monk. Telemachus died trying to stop the horrible sport of gladiators.

When the emperor heard of this outrage, he decreed the end of all gladiator games. One man's voice and death brought a end to the gladiators.

I was struck at the power one man's voice can have. I am certainly not in the position of being martyred for my beliefs, but isn't it strange that I still fear to speak up for a righteous cause? I pray that when a opportunity arises I will not shrink from speaking up for my Lord. This story has inspired me.

Posted by: Carissa