"I HAVE TO KNOW"

Thomas Hauker
England
1555
"Thomas," his friend lowered his voice so as not to be heard by the guard. "I have to ask you this favour. I need to know if what the others say about the grace of God is true. Tomorrow, when they burn you at ther stake, if the pain is tolerable and your mind is at peace, lift your hands above your head. Do it right befor you die. Thomas, I have to know."
Thomas Hauker whispered to his friend, "I will."
The next morning, Hauker was bound to the stake and the fire was lit. The fire burned a long time, but Hauker remained motionless. His skin was burnt to a crisp and his fingers were gone. Everyone watching supposed he was dead. Suddenly, miraculously, Hauker lifted his hands, still on fire, over his head. He reached them up to the living God, and then, with great rejoicing, clapped them together three times.
The people there broke into shouts of praise and applause. Hauker's friend had his answer.