Cosmas and Damian, twin brothers, were born some time in the 3rd Century in Arabia. Nothing is known about their early life, and they only rose to prominence because of their skill as physicians. Reportedly, with the help of their Christian faith they helped the blind see, made the paralyzed walk, and cured many kinds of illness. Their notoriety and piety was the cause of many conversions to Christianity, so at the start of the Diocletian persecution they were arrested and ordered to deny their faith. When they refused, they were brutally tortured but remained unharmed despite attempts to burn, stone, and crucify them. Frustrated at his inability to coerce the brothers to deny Christ, the Roman prefect had them beheaded.
CHALLENGE
Sts. Cosmas and Damian never charged for their services causing them to be nicknamed “the silverless”. Their charity bewildered non-Christians and drew many to inquire about the Christian faith. All our skills are gifts from our Creator. Can there be a better way to give him thanks than share these gifts with our fellow man? Today, help someone using one of your gifts, and neither seek nor accept any compensation.
