Throughout the history of the Church, there have been countless millions of Catholics who have bravely witnessed to the Truth, and endured all manner of torments and torture, rather than deny the Faith. Sadly, though, there have been many who, when tested, renounce God, and their Catholic Faith, rather than suffer death or other punishment. These unfaithful people will not only suffer greatly in the next life, but often also in this one.

It happened one day that the Roman Emperor wished to put all of the Catholic who were in his service at court to a test. This emperor was none other than Constanius Chlorus, the father of Constantine the Great (Constantine was the ruler who later made Catholicism the official religion of the empire).

So Constanius had all his courtiers and servants called into his presence, and required every one of them to sacrifice to the heathen gods. Those who did not, the emperor explained, would be promptly dismissed from his service – for those who did not do as their master commanded were not worthy his confidence.

Naturally, those who were Catholics bravely and firmly refused to scatter incense on the altars of the idols. For they knew well that if they gave honor and recognition to the demons who pretend to be the “gods” of the pagans, they would grievously offend the True and Only God. They would rather suffer being expelled from their earthly emperor's service than renounce the service they owe to their Heavenly Sovereign.

Sadly, one alone of their number proved false to his faith. He feared the emperor's threats, so he did what was required of him – he took part in the pagan rituals. For he cared more about gaining his earthly master’s favor than that of his Heavenly one.

But now we see what Constanius was really testing!

For the emperor, addressing the apostate Catholic, said: “Now I see that you are unfaithful to your God. If your heavenly master cannot trust your fidelity, then neither can I, your earthly master, place any confidence in you.” Thereupon he dismissed the unfaithful servant from his service.

And what happened to those Catholics who were steadfast? The emperor rewarded them greatly, and gave them many distinguished marks to show all the firm confidence he placed in them. Thus those who were ready to suffer for Christ in this life were instead rewarded for their fidelity.