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The
Praying Francis |
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My
God and My All!
In the beginning of the Franciscan Order there was Francis, newly
converted to Christ. And
there was Bernard of Quintavalle, one of the wealthiest noblemen of 13th
century
Intrigued as many of his fellow townsfolk were by the novelty of
Francis’ turning to God, Bernard was even more impressed by the
serenity and the sweetness with which Francis accepted the jeers and
reproaches of those who had not yet caught a glimpse of his Gospel
vision.
And so this rich young man invited the “herald of the Great
King” to his home one evening. After
supper and a prolonged conversation on the things of God, Bernard
pressed his visitor to stay the night, preparing a place for him in his
own room. Francis
threw himself on the bed, pretending to sleep.
Bernard did the same. As
the night wore on, Bernard was amazed to hear his guest, kneeling now in
the flickering lamplight, repeating again and again the pressing
prayerful cry: My
God and My All!
The fervor and trueness of this prayer inspired Bernard of
Quintavalle and tens of thousands after him to leave all things and
embark on the great Gospel journey of love and self-giving, led by him
whom we now know as St. Francis of My
God and My All! The
hallmark of St. Francis’ life – the escutcheon of his Order. The
spiritual insignia of all who follow his Gospel form of life as
priests, brothers, sisters, dedicated laity. My
God and My All! A
few simple words, yet limitless food for the spirit. This
prayer changed the life of the Little Poor Man of Assisi. How
he hopes we will let it change ours! |
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