Conflicting Loves
On this day in 1170, just over 850 years ago, Thomas Becket was martyred in the middle of nighttime vesper prayers in Canterbury Cathedral. Becket’s death is an amazing story of dramatic heroism. Thomas Becket was the Archbishop of Canterbury and resisted the plans of Henry II, King of England, to exert total monarchial control over the Church.
As the legend goes, in a fit of rage, Henry exclaimed “Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?" Regardless of Henry’s intent, four knights took his words as an order for Beckett’s execution. The knights stormed the cathedral during evening prayers."Where is Thomas Becket, traitor to the King and country?" The knights commanded that Becket bend to the King’s will.
When he refused, they attacked him with swords. Accepting death, Becket prayed: "I am no traitor and I am ready to die! For the name of Jesus and the protection of the church I am ready to embrace death." Many icons of Thomas Becket feature a sword through his head, depicting the manner of his death.
Yet, for all the drama of Thomas Becket’s death, what makes him even more compelling is the backstory. Becket was born to simple parents in Cheapside, London and quickly ascended the levels of the English elite. Over time, Henry II and Becket became close friends, hunting, carousing and even going to war together, living a life of luxury.
It could be said that Thomas was too worldly to befit a priest. Yet, by the mystery of God’s grace, a love for Christ started growing in Thomas’ life, likewise forming affection for the Church. Over time, his love for luxury was overtaken by his love for Christ. Becket’s loyalty to his friend and king, Henry, was rivaled by his loyalty to Christ’s Bride, the Church. This love eventually resulted in an abandonment of power, prestige and luxury. Instead, Becket embraced martyrdom.
There are times in our lives, as in Becket’s, when it becomes apparent that the things we love in this life compete against our affection for Christ. There are also times when this competition is much less obvious. It is in both cases that the Holy Spirit gives us the eyes to see this conflict and it is the Holy Spirit that gives us the strength to choose the greater portion, Jesus himself, even at the ultimate cost.
A Prayer
O God, our strength and our salvation, you called your servant Thomas Becket to be a shepherd of your people and a defender of your church; Keep your household from all evil and raise up faithful pastors and leaders who are wise in the ways of the gospel; through Jesus Christ, the shepherd of our souls, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
