St. Maximilian Kolbe, martyr of charity
Renowned for his heroic act of charity (volunteered to take the place of a prisoner condemned to death), St. Maximilian Kolbe was also known for his great passion for Mary. His fervent zeal was to be a saint and to do so, he gave himself to Mary as her instrument. His logic was this: Mary was the Mediatrix of Grace and her will is always perfectly aligned with God’s. Giving himself to her will certainly obtain her help and grace in following God’s will, the necessary condition to become a saint. His logic was proved right when the Mediatrix, who was able to stand firm at the foot of the cross, obtained for him a strong merciful love to withstand challenge and died courageously for others.
