The fear of others lays a snare, but one who trusts in the LORD is secure.
Proverbs 29:25 (NRSV)
Kilian (c. 689)
Challenged the Powerful
Celtic Christian Kilian left Ireland with eleven others to spread the Gospel in Europe. They made their way to the region near the mouth of the river Rhine named Franconia and East Thuringia, where they were welcomed by the Governor of Wurtzburg, Gozbert. He was converted and encouraged his people to listen to Kilian’s teachings.
Gozbert was married to his brother’s widow, Geilana, which was not considered acceptable by the Church at the time. When Kilian challenged the governor about his marriage, Gozbert decided to give up his wife. Geilana was greatly angered by this and, in revenge, had Kilian and two of his companions beheaded. Before they were killed, Kilian encouraged the others by reminding them that they need not fear those who could only kill the body but had no power over the soul (Matthew 10:28).
Come, Lord,
and cover me with the night.
Spread your grace over us
as you assured us you would do.
Your promises are more than
all the stars in the sky;
your mercy is deeper than the night.
Lord, it will be cold.
The night comes with its breath of death.
Night comes; the end comes; you come.
Lord, we wait for you day and night.
Prayer from Ghana