In a world that is always racing, that is always trying to make you anxious about a million things, it is crucial to learn to slow down and stay calm. It is crucial to learn to walk like a man who doesn’t have a worry in the world—because we have cast all our worries upon God in Heaven (1 Peter 5:7).

Saint Maximilian of Tebessa walked like a man without a worry in the world even when his own life was threatened.

Maximilian was the son of a Roman army veteran, Fabius Victor, and it was expected by the Empire that he would follow in his father’s footsteps.

In March 295, when he was about 21 years old, he was called to enlist in the Roman army. However, Maximilian, a devout Christian, calmly refused because he believed it would conflict with his faith to kill on behalf of an immoral empire—which at the time was intensely persecuting Christians.

Brought before the proconsul Dion, observers were amazed by how calmly Maximilian spoke. He did not display fear or anger but rather a serene conviction in his beliefs. When asked why he refused to serve, he boldly proclaimed his allegiance to Jesus Christ. The proconsul was mystified, and attempted to persuade Maximilian by offering him the rank of centurion because of his noble lineage. Maximilian refused, stating that his service was to God alone.

Sentenced to death for his refusal, Maximilian faced his execution with the same tranquility that had marked his trial. Witnesses described him as serene and untroubled, a young man prepared to meet his fate with a quiet strength that echoed his deep trust in God’s care. He had given all his worries to God, and in his final moments, prayed and encouraged others to remain strong in their faith.

Wondering how to live with the same calm as Saint Maximilian of Tebessa? Try going on a walk like a man without a worry in the world. See what it feels like. And come back tomorrow to read more about this idea.



Feast Day: March 12

Feast Day Shared By: Saint Innocent I

Patron Saint of: Conscientious Objectors