MIDWEEK MESSAGE – October 7, 2020

One of the most famous prayers is the Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi. Although not actually written by him, it is the way he lived and how he believed. No matter who wrote it, it is a prayer that is as effective today as it was when written over a hundred years ago and certainly one that is needed in our world today.

The topics covered – forgiveness, hope, faith, joy, and love are all things we need for today. Many people today feel hopeless – they may be out of work, losing their homes, and just feeling the loneliness of spending months in isolation from their friends and family they love.

Their faith may be shattered, they may have resentments, and joy is slipping away. However, the prayer is not a prayer of misery, but a call to be that which we wish to see in the world.

Whatever is going on in our lives, it is important for us to be who we were created to be – God’s vehicles for love, light, joy, forgiveness, hope, and faith. Things will get better – good does prevail, and we must remember that this prayer is really about being in the solution, not in the problem.

To be hope where there is despair, pardon when there is injury, joy instead of sadness, faith no matter how things may appear, and most importantly – love. When we live as suggested by the prayer, we are lifted up and we, therefore, lift others.

Quote of the Week

“A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows.”
St. Francis of Assisi