The Lantern in the Watchtower
Among the oldest Christian traditions surrounding the Knights Templar is the tale of a lonely watchtower that stood upon a rocky hill overlooking the roads traveled by pilgrims on their journey to Jerusalem.
Every night, before darkness covered the valleys, one Knight climbed the narrow stone steps carrying nothing but a lantern and a small wooden cross. His duty was simple: keep the light burning until dawn so that weary travelers would know they were not alone.
... moreThe Lantern in the Watchtower
Among the oldest Christian traditions surrounding the Knights Templar is the tale of a lonely watchtower that stood upon a rocky hill overlooking the roads traveled by pilgrims on their journey to Jerusalem.
Every night, before darkness covered the valleys, one Knight climbed the narrow stone steps carrying nothing but a lantern and a small wooden cross. His duty was simple: keep the light burning until dawn so that weary travelers would know they were not alone.
Many questioned why such an honored Knight was given so humble a task. Some believed he deserved to ride with commanders, bear banners into battle, or stand beside kings.
An aged Marshal of the Order quietly replied, "The Cross shines brightest where no one is looking."
Years passed. Storms battered the tower, fierce winds tried to extinguish the flame, and countless nights were spent in silence. Yet the faithful Knight never abandoned his post. He understood that one small light, faithfully kept, could save lives hidden by the darkness.
One winter evening, a violent storm swept across the hills. The rain fell without mercy, and the wind roared like the sea. Many believed no traveler would dare venture onto the dangerous road.
Still, the Knight climbed the tower.
Shielding the lantern beneath his cloak, he whispered the words of the Psalmist:
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?"
Hours later, a family of exhausted pilgrims emerged from the darkness. They had become hopelessly lost and were moments from wandering over the cliffs. Through the driving rain they saw the faint glow from the tower and followed it to safety.
The next morning, the Grand Master visited the tower.
Looking upon the tired Knight, he said, "Many brothers have defended the Holy Land with swords, but last night you defended souls with a single light."
From that day forward, every newly invested Templar was reminded that courage is not always found on the battlefield. Sometimes it is found in remaining faithful to the smallest duty entrusted by God.
The greatest Knight is not the one whose name is remembered by history, but the one whose faith remains constant when only Heaven is watching.
May every Christian Knight carry not only the sword of justice, but also the light of Christ, guiding the weary, protecting the innocent, and glorifying God in all things.
Sir Ssenfuma Ronald
Priory of St Militiades of África
