As a junior in college I became interested in reading the lives of the saints. As I read I became really interested in and inspired by St. Francis of Assisi. As I pursued following in the way of St. Francis and learning more about him I discovered that his feast day is October 4, which also just so happens to be my own birthday. Coincidence? I think not. Immediately, though the concept was completely foreign to my theological tradition at the time, I decided that St. Francis was going to be my patron saint. He has been a faithful witness and traveling companion for these past eight years. I look to Francis as a witness to the gospel, as an example of humility and loving service to others, of simplicity and freedom. I also look to him as one who intercedes on my behalf before the throne of God. Below is a prayer attributed to him:
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury,pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen
In honor of Saint Francis I recommend the following books for your own edification and inspiration:
The Little Flowers of Saint Francis edited by Brother Ugolino
The Lessons of Saint Francis: How to Bring Simplicity and Spirituality into Your Daily Life by John Michael Talbot
Chasing Francis by Ian Morgan Cron
Saint Francis of Assisi
by G. K. Chesterton
