I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.— Psalm 27:13

Mass Readings: Job 19:21-27 / Luke 10:1-12 

Peace Prayer 

At 13 I took St. Francis of Assisi as my confirmation name simply because he and I love animals. But as I’ve grown in my knowledge of this holy man, I see how today’s Gospel reflects so many aspects of his life: the simplicity, the mendicant preaching, and the promise of peace. This last aspect reminds me of the first line of his famous prayer: “Make me a channel of your peace.” 

I’m also reminded of Francis’ meeting with the Sultan during the Crusades. He knew he might be killed as an enemy before ever meeting the Sultan, yet Francis persevered and was granted an audience. He didn’t demand conversion, but rather, he built understanding and common ground, and provided a model that our current culture desperately needs to follow. 

Prayer: St. Francis, pray that I may be an instrument of God’s peace.