Rebuild in Humble Service

The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today, Memorial of Saint Francis of Assisi, Religious, challenge us to acknowledge our spiritual poverty and even in our lament seek openness accepting discipleship in the humility of “Brother Francis”.

Home of Franciscans Of Halifax

In the Reading from Baruch the Prophet Addresses the Diaspora.

* [4:5–5:9] The poet addresses the exiles (vv. 5–9a), and then Zion personified is introduced, speaking to the nations and mourning the loss of her children (vv. 9b–16). She then addresses the exiles (vv. 17–29). Finally (4:30–5:9) the poet issues three calls to Jerusalem (4:30, 36; 5:5): she will see her children returning (4:22, 36–37; 5:5). (Baruch, CHAPTER 4, n.d.)

Psalm 69 is a lament complaining of suffering.

* [Psalm 69] A lament complaining of suffering in language both metaphorical (Ps 69:2–3, 15–16, the waters of chaos) and literal (Ps 69:4, 5, 9, 11–13, exhaustion, alienation from family and community, false accusation). In the second part the psalmist prays with special emphasis that the enemies be punished for all to see (Ps 69:23–29). Despite the pain, the psalmist does not lose hope that all be set right, and promises public praise (Ps 69:30–36). The Psalm, which depicts the suffering of the innocent just person vividly, is cited often by the New Testament especially in the passion accounts, e.g., Ps 69:5 in Jn 15:25; Ps 69:22 in Mk 15:23, 36 and parallels and in Jn 19:29. The Psalm prays not so much for personal vengeance as for public vindication of God’s justice. There was, at this time, no belief in an afterlife where such vindication could take place. Redress had to take place now, in the sight of all. (Psalms, PSALM 69, n.d.)

The Gospel of Luke describes the  Return of the Seventy-two and The Privileges of Discipleship.

* [10:18] I have observed Satan fall like lightning: the effect of the mission of the seventy-two is characterized by the Lucan Jesus as a symbolic fall of Satan. As the kingdom of God is gradually being established, evil in all its forms is being defeated; the dominion of Satan over humanity is at an end.

* [10:21] Revealed them to the childlike: a restatement of the theme announced in Lk 8:10: the mysteries of the kingdom are revealed to the disciples. See also note on Mt 11:25–27. (Luke, CHAPTER 10, n.d.)

Rev. Andy Alexander, SJ, refers to Franciscan Media’s “Saint of the Day” site, that offers a linked outline of St. Francis’ life and significance.

St. Francis grew in love of and kinship with all of creation. This is more than ecology. It is about love and affection for God’s creation. The text of the encyclical, Laudato Si’, on “Our Common Home,” by Pope Francis, is well worth reading to understand the depth and breath of Catholic teaching on the environment. [An excellent 4 min. video summary of the encyclical.] What graces might be offered me today to grow in harmony with and love for all of Creation?

St. Francis was praying in the dilapidated church of San Damiano, and from the cross, he experienced Jesus say, “Francis, go and rebuild my Church, which, as you see, is falling into ruin.” At first, Francis thought Jesus meant that church building. He came to realize, Jesus was calling him to help with a deeply needed renewal in the whole Church. In what ways might I participate in the renewal of the Church today? What invitations are there from my diocese, my parish bulletin?

Dear Lord, we thank you for the inspiring witness of your servant, St. Francis of Assisi. Please bless our reflection on his example today and give us the grace to respond freely and wholeheartedly to the invitations you inspire in us. Draw us closer to your heart and your ways. We ask this with trust in your love for us all. (Alexander, n.d.)

Don Schwager quotes The power of the Kingdom of God, by Cyril of Alexandria (376-444 AD)

"He also gave the holy apostles power and might even to raise the dead, cleanse lepers, heal the sick, and by the laying on of hands to call down from heaven the Holy Spirit on anyone they wanted. He gave them power to bind and to loose people's sins. His words are 'I say to you, whatever you will bind on earth, will be bound in heaven (Matthew 18:18). Whatever you will loose on earth, will be loosed in heaven.' These are the things we see ourselves possessing. Blessed are our eyes and the eyes of those of all who love him. We have heard his wonderful teaching. He has given us the knowledge of God the Father, and he has shown him to us in his own nature. The things that were by Moses were only types and symbols. Christ has revealed the truth to us. He has taught us that not by blood and smoke, but rather by spiritual sacrifices, we must honor him who is spiritual, immaterial and above all understanding."(excerpt from COMMENTARY ON LUKE, HOMILY 67) (Schwager, n.d.)

The Word Among Us Meditation on Luke 10:17-24 invites us to look at St. Francis of Assisi, whose feast is today. When he heard God calling him to “repair my church,” Francis got to work, physically repairing the dilapidated church of St. Damian, stone by stone. It was an act of simple, humble trust in God’s word. He even called himself il Poverello, “the little poor one.” By his preaching and by his humble, childlike example, he inspired thousands of people who also embraced the call to humility and poverty as they preached the gospel from town to town. And wherever they went, people were set free from sin—even demons shuddered at their faith! Within a matter of a few years, the renewal movement that Francis sparked repaired the whole Church.

How can you be childlike in your walk with God today? As you put your confidence in Jesus, you will find that, whatever darkness you may face, he will be with you. You will have all the strength and wisdom you need as you depend on him.

“Jesus, I trust in your ways.” (Meditation on Luke 10:17-24, n.d.)

Friar Jude Winkler recalls the passage from Baruch yesterday was a lamentation and their exile was their own fault, but today God will have mercy and offers a therapeutic punishment inviting them to turn back with a more profound faith. In moments of trial we often realize God’s goodness. In the Gospel, Jesus calls 72 disciples, the number of elders assisting Moses in the Exodus. Satan is described as falling like lightning and Jesus is rejoicing at the defeat of evil underlining  the fact that our names in heaven, or our relationship with God is the important thing. Our gifts give us the responsibility to serve.  The child believes without having to prove it. The child recognizes the awe and wonder as we are called to. They have a special gift and we are grateful for faith and the wonderful things that have happened during the day. Friar Jude reminds us to be thankful for miracles great and small in our life.

Fr. Mike Schmitz shares readings that remind us that all good things come from God, and he calls us to specific places and times for a reason. In the book of Esther, Fr. Mike points out that Esther was perfectly positioned to fulfill God's will. We too, can examine our lives and realize that there are places God has brought us, "for such a time as this". The readings are Nehemiah 9, Esther 4 and 14, and Proverbs 21:9-12.

Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, continues an overview of the life and times of Francis of Assisi, by introducing author Jon Sweeney who engages students in an imaginative practice to help them embody Francis’ example.

“Think now about your feet. Think about your feet as you look out the window at people on the street. Do you see someone in need of kindness? It is often easy to find someone who appears lonely. Do your feet move you in their direction? We often move around so quickly that we fail to notice when someone needs our help. Or, let’s be honest, we don’t much care. We see a need and instead we put our feet up.  

“Put your heart in your feet. When was the last time you went looking for the person who needs a friend? Be honest—when was it? Whether in a classroom, at work, or on the street, it has never been easy to do the right thing because it takes a special kind of courage. We will always feel more comfortable not helping, avoiding new and uncomfortable situations. But we need to do more than be comfortable.  

“God knows that my feet have not moved toward helping others, plenty. I’m trying today to be more courageous than I was when I was your age. I hope you’ll do better than I did.”… 

Then I added, “In all of this, I have to tell you, I am channeling the teachings of the medieval saint I was talking about before. He’s been immortalized in birdbaths everywhere, which is unfortunate. You see, this is how Francis of Assisi imagined his role in the world: in very practical ways, using his hands, his mouth, and his feet.” (Rohr, n.d.)

We are blessed with the example of il Poverello, “the little poor one” as we seek to find a way to activate our Baptismal Anointing, as priest, prophet, and leader.

References

Alexander, A. (n.d.). Daily Reflections. Creighton Online Ministries: Home. Retrieved October 4, 2025, from https://onlineministries.creighton.edu/daily-reflections/daily-reflection-october-4-2025 

Baruch, CHAPTER 4. (n.d.). USCCB. Retrieved October 4, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/baruch/4?5 

Luke, CHAPTER 10. (n.d.). USCCB. Retrieved October 4, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/luke/10?17 

Meditation on Luke 10:17-24. (n.d.). Word Among Us. Retrieved October 4, 2025, from https://wau.org/meditations/2025/10/04/1400503/ 

Psalms, PSALM 69. (n.d.). USCCB. Retrieved October 4, 2025, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/psalms/69? 

Rohr, R. (n.d.). Daily Meditations — Center for Action and Contemplation. Center for Action and Contemplation. Retrieved October 4, 2025, from https://cac.org/daily-meditations/franciscan-witness-and-practice-weekly-summary/ 

Schwager, D. (n.d.). Your Names Are Written in Heaven. Daily Scripture Net. Retrieved October 4, 2025, from https://www.dailyscripture.net/daily-meditation/?ds_year=2025&date=oct4 

Tradition and Learning

The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today, the Memorial of Saint Francis of Assisi, challenge us to follow Christ within the tension between action and contemplation.

A Franciscan heritage

The reading from the Letter of Paul to the Galatians shares his Call by Christ.

* [1:18–24] Paul’s first journey to Jerusalem as a Christian, according to Galatians (cf. Acts 9:23–31 and the note on Acts 12:25). He is quite explicit about contacts there, testifying under oath (Gal 1:20). On returning to Syria (perhaps specifically Damascus, cf. Gal 1:17) and Cilicia (including his home town Tarsus, cf. Acts 9:30; 22:3), Paul most likely engaged in missionary work. He underscores the fact that Christians in Judea knew of him only by reputation. (Galatians, CHAPTER 1, n.d.)

Psalm 139 praises the Inescapable God.

* [Psalm 139] A hymnic meditation on God’s omnipresence and omniscience. The psalmist is keenly aware of God’s all-knowing gaze (Ps 139:1–6), of God’s presence in every part of the universe (Ps 139:7–12), and of God’s control over the psalmist’s very self (Ps 139:13–16). Summing up Ps 139:1–16, 17–18 express wonder. There is only one place hostile to God’s rule—wicked people. The psalmist prays to be removed from their company (Ps 139:19–24). (Psalms, PSALM 139, n.d.)

In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus Visits Martha and Mary.

* [10:38–42] The story of Martha and Mary further illustrates the importance of hearing the words of the teacher and the concern with women in Luke.

* [10:39] Sat beside the Lord at his feet: it is remarkable for first-century Palestinian Judaism that a woman would assume the posture of a disciple at the master’s feet (see also Lk 8:35; Acts 22:3), and it reveals a characteristic attitude of Jesus toward women in this gospel (see Lk 8:2–3).

* [10:42] There is need of only one thing: some ancient versions read, “there is need of few things”; another important, although probably inferior, reading found in some manuscripts is, “there is need of few things, or of one.” (Luke, CHAPTER 10, n.d.)

Vivian Amu comments that we are set apart and called as children of God to love. That love may be shown by serving others with vigor and zeal or sitting at the feet of Jesus to listen.

As for me, I would imagine that as I manifested from the breath of God to the warmth and safety of my mother's womb, God smiled while thinking of what I would look like and be like. God thought, “I will make her not too tall and not too short.” “I will give her a milk chocolate complexion and strong features that stand out.” “I will give her strength to endure her pains throughout her life, even though she might think she is not able to bear her pains.” “I will make her not too boring and not too excitable, that way she maintains her mystery, and people would want to get to know her better." What do you see when you look in the mirror, especially on the days you don’t feel particularly special, strong, or extraordinary? What do you see in the mirror on the days you feel overworked or underappreciated? Can you imagine the smile on God’s face when you were being knit together in your mother’s womb? Can you imagine God’s enjoyment while thinking of who you would become? Come rest in my arms or by my feet, says the Lord, and let me nourish your soul, tend to your heart, and tell you how lovely you are. May we find ways to balance our desire to serve and our desire to rest at the feet of Jesus, knowing we are wonderfully and specially made with greater purpose.

Merciful and loving God, who loved me before I was born and loves me still;

May I sit at your feet for a moment and be nourished by your words.

This I humbly ask through Christ our Lord. Amen. (Amu, n.d.)

Don Schwager quotes “The Body of Christ needs hearers and doers of the Word,” by Ambrose of Milan, 339-397 A.D.

"'Virtue does not have a single form. In the example of Martha and Mary, there is added the busy devotion of the one and the pious attention of the other to the Word of God, which, if it agrees with faith, is preferred even to the very works, as it is written: 'Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.' So let us also strive to have what no one can take away from us, so that not careless but diligent hearing may be granted to us. For even the seeds of the heavenly Word itself are likely to be taken away if they are sowed by the wayside (Luke 8:5,12). Let the desire for wisdom lead you as it did Mary. It is a greater and more perfect work. Do not let service divert the knowledge of the heavenly Word... Nor is Martha rebuked in her good serving, but Mary is preferred because she has chosen the better part for herself, for Jesus abounds with many blessings and bestows many gifts. And therefore the wiser chooses what she perceives as foremost."(excerpt from EXPOSITION OF THE GOSPEL OF LUKE 7.83-86) (Schwager, n.d.)

The Word Among Us Meditation on Luke 10:38-42 comments that it’s quite possible that Jesus’ tone was not harsh. Jesus loved Martha; he longed for her to spend time with him. He wanted her to experience peace, not strife, and he wished that she could enjoy the closeness that Mary experienced sitting at his feet. So when he repeated her name, Jesus was probably speaking with tenderness and concern.

Jesus doesn’t want any of his sons and daughters to miss out on his presence, including you. Just as he cried out, “Martha, Martha,” he calls you by name today—not once, but twice! Can you hear the love in his voice? He knows that you are busy and burdened and anxious; he knows your temptations and failings. And he wants to set you free. Jesus will never stop calling you. Come, sit at his feet.

“Here I am, Lord. I want to hear your voice today.” (Meditation on Luke 10:38-42, n.d.)

Friar Jude Winkler notes that Paul is speaking to Gentile Christians in Galatia about his credentials as a Pharisee fulfilling the call of a fellow Benjamite, Jeremiah, to be an apostle to the nations who conferred with James and Cephus about the earthly life of Jesus. The tension between contemplation and action in Church history is highlighted by the Gospel. Friar Jude reminds us of the necessity to spend time listening to our guests. 

The Franciscan Media article on Saint Francis of Assisi comments that Francis was torn between a life devoted entirely to prayer and a life of active preaching of the Good News. He decided in favor of the latter, but always returned to solitude when he could. He wanted to be a missionary in Syria or in Africa, but was prevented by shipwreck and illness in both cases. He did try to convert the sultan of Egypt during the Fifth Crusade.

Francis of Assisi was poor only that he might be Christ-like. He recognized creation as another manifestation of the beauty of God. In 1979, he was named patron of ecology. He did great penance—apologizing to “Brother Body” later in life—that he might be totally disciplined for the will of God. Francis’ poverty had a sister, Humility, by which he meant total dependence on the good God. But all this was, as it were, preliminary to the heart of his spirituality: living the gospel life, summed up in the charity of Jesus and perfectly expressed in the Eucharist. (Saint Francis of Assisi, n.d.)

Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, introduces Franciscan priest and author Murray Bodo who writes of how Francis of Assisi’s experiences of God led him to solidarity with those who suffer. 

Shortly afterwards, praying before the crucifix in the dilapidated chapel of San Damiano outside Assisi’s walls, he heard a voice from the crucifix saying, “Francis, go and repair my house which, as you see, is falling into ruin.” And Francis responded immediately, begging stones and rebuilding this little chapel with his own hands. As he was to learn later, it was the Catholic Church itself that he was to restore. How he was to do this he learned while attending mass one day. He heard in the Gospel that the true disciples of Christ should take no gold, or silver, or copper in their belts, no bag for their journey, or two tunics, or sandals, or a staff (Matthew 10:9–10). He was filled with joy and said, “This is what I want; this is what I desire with all my heart.” He renounced his patrimony, gave away all his possessions, and began the life of an itinerant preacher who dwelled among the lepers. Others followed, and the Franciscan way of life began. (Rohr, 2022)

We are prompted by the Spirit to piety, study, and action through which we journey with Christ inspired by the life of people like Francis of Assisi. 

References

Amu, V. (n.d.). Creighton U. Daily Reflection. Online Ministries. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/100422.html 

Galatians, CHAPTER 1. (n.d.). USCCB. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/galatians/1?13 

Luke, CHAPTER 10. (n.d.). USCCB. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/luke/10?38 

Meditation on Luke 10:38-42. (n.d.). The Word Among Us: Homepage. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://wau.org/meditations/2022/10/04/504735/ 

Psalms, PSALM 139. (n.d.). USCCB. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://bible.usccb.org/bible/psalms/139?1 

Rohr, R. (2022, October 4). A Mystical Way of Life — Center for Action and Contemplation. Center for Action and Contemplation. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://cac.org/daily-meditations/a-mystical-way-of-life-2022-10-04/ 

Saint Francis of Assisi. (n.d.). Franciscan Media. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-francis-of-assisi 

Schwager, D. (n.d.). Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations. Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations – Daily Scripture ... Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.dailyscripture.net/daily-meditation/?ds_year=2022&date=oct4