Memorial of Saint Francis of Assisi
Intention: For persons living in places of crime and violence, that through the world’s efforts, safety and peace and new promise for their futures will soon be theirs.
Today’s Gospel | Luke 10:38-42
Jesus entered a village where a woman whose name was Martha welcomed him. She had a sister named Mary who sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to him speak. Martha, burdened with much serving, came to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me.”
The Lord said to her in reply, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her.”
From the Meditation on Saint Francis | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
You are required by your work to love the poor, because the task you have in this work is to be devoted to their instruction. Look upon them, with Saint Francis, as images of Jesus Christ and as those who are best disposed to receive his Spirit in abundance. In this way the more affection you show for them, the more you will belong to Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Eternal Father, we live our lives surrounded by your creation. How easily we sometimes forget this and fail to respect the sacredness that lives around and within us. We pray that you open our eyes and our hearts to your presence. Calm our distracted and anxious minds. May a spirit of simplicity guide us, moving us to steward well the world that you have given us and serve well those who you have entrusted to our care. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.