Born in the early 200’s he was named one of the seven deacons in Rome. Like the original seven deacons in Acts in Acts 6-8 he was among those responsible for handling the charities of the church. In 258 Emperor Valerian wanted to gain the treasures of the church. He ordered Bishop Sixtus and the deacons put to death on August 6. Lawrence agreed to surrender the treasure of the church. Three days later he invited the emperor to accompany him to view the “wondrous riches of our God.”
Aurelius Prudentius wrote a lengthy hymn in 401 describing what happened next.
He (Lawrence) hastens through the city streets,
And in three days he gathers up
The poor and sick, a mighty throne
Of all in need of kindly alms.
Another verse describes the future hope of the treasures Lawrence showed to the emperor.
Not foul and shabby, or infirm,
As now they seem to scornful eyes.
But fair, in radiant vesture clad,
With crowns of gold upon their heads.
Neither amused nor edified by Lawrence’ display, Valerian ordered Lawrence killed on August 10. The hymn describes Lawrence’ gruesome death.
Then it concludes,
Some noble Romans, who were led
By his amazing fortitude
To faith in Christ, then bore away
The hero’s body from the scene.
By Rev. Ronald Jansen
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