«The light of the righteous rejoices, but the lamp of the wicked will be put out» (Proverbs 13:9).
WISDOM
The area of Prague, located in the Kingdom of Bohemia (the Czech Republic today), in the Eastern part of the empire, became one of the greatest intellectual and ecclesiastic centers of Europe in the fourteenth century. John Wiclef’s theological thesis arrived there, to be read and debated by scholars. One of them was John Hus (1370-1415). He was born to a poor but very devout family. From a young age he displayed great intellectual ability, so when he got to university, he distinguished himself as one of the best students. Upon completing his studies, he entered the priesthood, but a short time later he was called to serve in the royal court. He was a professor and later became president of the University of Prague.
Hus considered that the Word of God was the only source of authority to guide the life of human beings. Likewise, he opposed the church’s hierarchic structures and attacked the practice of indulgences, following Wiclef´s ideas. In those years, a strong dissidence (known as the «Western Schism») fractured the Papacy, which caused up to three Popes to dispute overpower. That favored Hus to, at least for some years, preach in peace. However, in 1415 he was summoned to the Council of Constance. Emperor Sigismund granted him a Safe conduct to protect his life so there wouldn’t be any suspicions.
Hus decided to attend even though he was aware he could die. A short while after arriving in Constance, he was arrested. The reformer’s enemies convinced the emperor that «he didn’t have to keep his word when given to heretics.» So after unsuccessfully urging him to recant, the Council condemned Hus to death. On July 6, 1415, John Hus was led to the stake. Not a single complaint was heard from his lips, instead he sang hymns and praises until the flames silenced his voice.
When news of Hus’s death reached Bohemia, indignation ran high. But the seed sown by this servant of God made many people follow his teachings. Likewise, hundreds of young people followed their teacher’s example and were willing to proclaim the good news of salvation at the expense of their own lives.
John Hus used his intelligence to honor his heavenly Father, benefit others and be a good influence in society. His ideas transformed the world and laid the foundation for the future development of Protestant reformation.
You can also be a different influence and use your life to be a blessing to others.
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Take From: Daily Devotions for Youth 2020
«A New You»
From: Alejandro Medina Villareal
Collaborators: Gezer Noria & Misael Morillo
