11
Aug '24
August 9, 2024
11
Aug '24
A few years ago I became fascinated by St. Francis of Assisi. Born into a wealthy family in modern-day Italy in 1181 AD, he had visions that led him to renounce his family and fortune to become a wandering beggar for Christ. Owning only his clothes, eating only what he was given, and sleeping wherever he could, he traveled the countryside preaching the love of Jesus in such a powerful way that many men and women joined him. He insisted that his followers would never establish fixed monasteries like other orders so they could be free to go on whatever “road trip” Jesus commanded them.
Where did Francis ever get the crazy idea for this unrealistic lifestyle? He simply heard the words of Jesus and decided to follow them faithfully. He was especially influenced by the story of the rich man who came to Jesus wanting to know how to gain eternal life. Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. (Matthew 19:21-22) Francis and his followers found freedom by letting go of the things of this world in order to bless and heal and preach to God’s children (and even birds!)
St. Francis did not insist that everyone had to choose poverty to serve God. He established a remarkable order for married people who continued to work and live ordinary but faithful lives. As we go on the road trip of life, may it be mapped by God’s will. In a song I wrote St. Francis tells his followers: I will go where he leads me, you will go where he sends, For our feet are roadworthy for the journey that never ends.
Pastor Andy