The death of Jesus became also the hour of His glorification. Just as seeds need to lose their form as seeds in order to grow and become fruitful so Jesus, and those who lay down their lives, following His example, do not hang on to their mortal lives to preserve themselves. It is a false perception that life can be preserved by protecting itself. We surrender this earthly existence in order to experience a far, richer fulfilling eternal life.

The martyrs chose to die willingly for they recognized the supreme advantage of knowing Christ in His death and resurrection, even in the midst of extreme tortures, as did St Lawrence.

We have but to observe nature's process of seeds dying first to become new shoots. We have failed to grasp the link to our own spiritual life. Kahlil Gibran wrote. 'Your pain is but the breaking of the shell which encloses your realization.' For what often creates pain and anxiety in us is the fear of the unknown. Genuine faith is learning to 'let go' and walking in trust.