Every morning, the kids and I read from the Bible, a section of reading from a history or philosophy book, and a section from a book called “Extreme Devotion.” This morning’s passage from “Extreme Devotion” was so good and so amazing that I though you might like to read it, too.
First, a quick background: in England (and much of Europe) in the 1400/1500s, there was fierce persecution of “protestants,” those people who refused to join the Catholic Church. These protestants were often involved in translating the Bible in the common language, which was illegal (the Catholic Church had commanded that the Bible be in only Latin and that only ministers owned it). Englishmen like William Tyndale and John Knox rebelled against these acts, and were arrested and burned at the stake for it.
In today’s reading, it’s about a young man named Thomas Hauker, captured and condemned to death for his beliefs. This is a true story.
Thomas Hauker, a bright, well-favored, good-looking young gentleman, would not deny his personal relationship with Christ. For this he was sentenced to die at the stake.
Days before his execution, Thomas’ friends came to his English prison cell. One said, “I’ve heard that God gives a special grace to those who die in the fire that enables them to bear the flames. For your sake, that I might be able to bear this cruelty to you, can you give some sign of it? Without knowing this, I don’t believe I can bear this day.”
Thomas thought for a moment, “If the rage of pain can be tolerated, before I die I will lift up my hands to heaven as an indication.”
On the day of execution, the crowd was abuzz with Thomas’ promise. As he was chained to the stake, he spoke quietly and with great grace to the men who laid the wood. Then he closed his eyes and the fire was kindled.
Thomas continued to preach to those around him, but soon, for the roar of the flames, he could not. All were sure he had died. Suddenly, his hands rose above his head to his God and, with praise and thanksgiving, clapped together three times. A shout arose in the crowd, and Thomas sank into the fire and gave up his spirit.
Wow. The section went on to encourage us that no matter our troubles, God is faithful and can help you bear it. It was a good lesson. 
Wed, Dec 3, 2008
Dear Diary