Tikimt 10 — October 20

Saint Sergius and His Best Friend

Today we remember a brave soldier named Saint Sergius (say it: SUR-jus). He was a strong and important soldier, and the king liked him very much. But Sergius loved Jesus more than he loved pleasing the king.

Sergius had a best friend named Bacchus (say it: BAH-koos), and the two of them loved God together. When the king learned that they were Christians, he sent them to a ruler who told them, again and again, to stop believing in Jesus. But they would not stop, because they loved God with all their hearts.

Sergius's dear friend Bacchus stayed faithful to God right to the end of his life, and gave his life rather than stop loving Him. That is what makes him a martyr. Sergius missed his friend very much. Then one night he had a dream: he saw Bacchus shining brightly in a beautiful home in heaven, happy and safe with God. That dream filled Sergius with courage.

Wicked men hurt Sergius too, because he would not stop loving Jesus, and he gave his life as his friend had. He was not afraid. He knew he was going home to live with God forever, and to see his good friend again.

Later, the people who loved God built a beautiful church for Saint Sergius. And there God showed how dear His brave servant was: a sweet-smelling oil came from Sergius's resting place, and it made sick people well.

Sergius saw his friend Bacchus shining brightly in a beautiful home in heaven, happy and safe with God.