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The Forty Martyrs of Sebace

"Reward and punishment: During the persecution of Licinius, in the year 320 of the Christian era, forty soldiers of the garrison of Sebaste seceding from their comrades, who, in compliance with the emperor's orders, had gone to sacrifice to the idols, proclaimed themselves Christians.
The torments by fire and sword being ineffectual to conquer their constancy, they were exposed, devoid of covering, upon a frozen pool, there to pass the night within sight of a tepid bath, kept ready for such as might apostatize. All remained firm, however; their keeper meanwhile, who was watching them, beheld angels hovering above them with thirthy-nine crowns. While seeking to explain the reason of this number, one of the intended martyrs apostatized and rushed towards the bath, but on entering was struck with death. The keeper, converted by this miracle, went forward and took his place. As all outlived the sufferings of that cruel night, they were huddled into carts, and carried to the stake. Thus the victors received their crown, and the apostate found death and everlasting perdition, instead of the life he had promised himself.

Moral reflection: Such an example is a confirmation of the words of the Gospel, which a Christian cannot have too much in mind: "He that preferreth his life, shall lose it; and he that shall lose his life for my sake, shall find it." Pictorial half hours with the saints, by Rev. Auguste François Lecanu, 1865

Prayer: "Valiant Soldiers of Christ who meet us, with your mysterious number, at this commencement of our Forty Days’ Fast, receive the homage of our devotion. Your memory is venerated throughout the whole Church, and your glory is great in Heaven. Though engaged in the service of an earthly prince, you were the Soldiers of the Eternal King: to Him were you faithful, and from Him did you receive your crown of eternal glory. We, also, are His soldiers. We are fighting for the kingdom of Heaven. Our enemies are many and powerful but, like you, we can conquer them if, like you, we use the arms which God has put in our hands. Faith in God’s word, hope in His assistance, and humility and prudence —with these we are sure of victory.

Pray for us, Holy Martyrs, that we may keep from all compromise with our enemies, for our defeat is certain if we try to serve two masters. During these Forty Days we must put our arms in order, repair our lost strength and renew our engagements. Come to our assistance and get us a share in your brave spirit.

A crown is also prepared for us: it is to be won on easier terms than yours, and yet we will lose it unless we keep up within us an esteem for our vocation. How many times, in our past lives, have we not forfeited that glorious crown? But God in His mercy has offered it to us again, and we are resolved on winning it. Oh, for the glory of our common Lord and Master, make intercession for us!" The Liturgical Year by Dom Gueranger.