Day 2- Saint Polycarp of Smyrna (c. 69–155, martyred)

Polycarp lived at the hinge of the apostolic age. Tradition tells us he was a disciple of the Apostle John, and as bishop of Smyrna, he carried forward the teaching and witness of the first generation of Christians. His life stretched across decades of service, pastoring a community that often lived under the shadow of persecution.

His faithfulness came to its fullest test near the end of his life. When Roman officials arrested him, they urged him to deny Christ and swear by Caesar in order to save his life. Polycarp stood firm. Brought into the arena before the crowd, he was pressed again to curse Christ. His response has echoed through the centuries: “Eighty-six years I have served him, and he has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?” With calm dignity, he faced the flames and entrusted himself to the Lord he had followed all his days.

The story of his martyrdom was quickly written down by the Christians of Smyrna, becoming one of the earliest eyewitness accounts of a martyr’s death. In it, the church saw not only Polycarp’s courage but Christ’s own victory shining through his servant. Polycarp’s death was not in despair, but in worship—his life offered as a sacrifice of praise.

For us today, Polycarp reminds us that the Christian life is not about avoiding hardship but about remaining faithful in the midst of it. Most of us will not face martyrdom, but we all face moments where our allegiance is tested. Polycarp teaches us that steadfastness does not come from our own strength, but from trust in the One who has already conquered death.