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Since the days of the early Church, there have been those who have spoken boldly for God in a setting of mockery and derision.
Frederick the Great, who ruled Prussia from 1740 to 1786, was widely known as an agnostic and scoffer against religion.
One night, with members of his staff gathered around him, the king began making crude jokes about the Son of God until the whole place was filled with laughter.
One of his most trusted officers, General von Zeland, was among those present.
Von Zeland was a devout believer and after listening to the mocking comments for a time, he finally arose and solemnly addressed the king.
"Sire, you know I have not feared death.
You know I have fought for you in 38 battles, and 38 battles I have won.
But, sire, my hairs are gray.
Sire, I cannot stand to hear my Savior spoken of as thou hast spoken of Him.
I salute thee, sire, as an old man who loves the Savior on the edge of eternity." The room went deathly still.
What would be the fate of one who had rebuked the king with such boldness? Perhaps those present wondered if the old officer's life hung in the balance, in spite of his years of faithful service.
Finally, the king responded.
With a voice that shook, he said, "General von Zeland, I beg your pardon.
I beg your pardon." In moments, the whole company quietly exited the room.
Since the days of the early Church, there have been those who have spoken boldly for God in a setting of mockery and derision.
Frederick the Great, who ruled Prussia from 1740 to 1786, was widely known as an agnostic and scoffer against religion.
One night, with members of his staff gathered around him, the king began making crude jokes about the Son of God until the whole place was filled with laughter.
One of his most trusted officers, General von Zeland, was among those present.
Von Zeland was a devout believer and after listening to the mocking comments for a time, he finally arose and solemnly addressed the king.
"Sire, you know I have not feared death.
You know I have fought for you in 38 battles, and 38 battles I have won.
But, sire, my hairs are gray.
Sire, I cannot stand to hear my Savior spoken of as thou hast spoken of Him.
I salute thee, sire, as an old man who loves the Savior on the edge of eternity." The room went deathly still.
What would be the fate of one who had rebuked the king with such boldness? Perhaps those present wondered if the old officer's life hung in the balance, in spite of his years of faithful service.
Finally, the king responded.
With a voice that shook, he said, "General von Zeland, I beg your pardon.
I beg your pardon." In moments, the whole company quietly exited the room.
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