In Hills of Zion, I bring together several main characters from various walks of life, each with their own unique internal conflict. Some seek the truth directly while others fail to identify the cry in their heart for the true Gospel. In preparing for the sequel, Fields of Zion, I pondered the inevitable aftermath of Perci and Marie’s violent experiences. How would this affect their relationships with each other; with others? Could they ever be “normal”?
We think of martyrs as mature men and women of faith. But what happens when youths experience severe persecution for the sake of Christ? How do they manage the strain? In The Martyr’s Mirror, several instances are recorded where minors willingly sacrificed their lives for Jesus’ sake. Many were tortured to obtain confessions or to betray their brethren. Most passed the test of fiery trial, but some did not.
What would be the spiritual and psychological ramifications for young Christians who endure suffering? Fields of Zion explores those outcomes. Perci made a brave decision to surrender his goals and status to become a follower of Christ. What temptations must he face when the sanctifying fire begins to burn the dross? How would Marie cope with life after nearly dying for Christ?
One girl of twelve, Eulalia of Barcelona, was so possessed by the spirit of Christ that her parents sequestered her in the countryside for months to prevent her from testifying and being martyred. In 304, the judge entreated her in soft tones to cease her faith, for she was too young to die. She responded by spitting on the idol offered her. The result was torn limbs and cutting hooks ripped into her side.
Another youth, fourteen-year-old Pelagius, in the tenth century near Cordoba, Spain, had his limbs severed one by one before finally being beheaded by Muslims. Unfortunately, one instance tells of a young boy who failed the test when persecution came. In 684, the Byzantine emperor commissioned one Simeon to confront Constantine Sylvanus, an outspoken critic of image worship. Sylvanus was a teacher whose students adored and revered him. Simeon ordered Sylvanus’ students to execute their beloved teacher. All refused but one. In the heat of the moment, a lad named Justus stabbed the poor teacher to death with his pen. This story especially touches my heart, as I am also a teacher. What would my students do? Probably not a very healthy mental exercise.
Youths are not immune to persecution. Children tend to heal emotionally and psychologically from traumatic occurrences, but that does not mean they do not suffer long-term effects from torture and privation.
a blog about the book Hills of Zion and heretics of Medieval Europe