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Monday, October 04, 2004 Meditation Galatians 1:6-12 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel. (Galatians 1:6) What “different gospels” might tempt us to turn from grace? And how does the witness of St. Francis of Assisi—whose feast we celebrate today—point to the remedy? According to the “Prosperity Gospel,” God guarantees blessings to his followers. Trials are seen as God’s punishment for our sins. But listen to Francis, captured in battle, joyfully singing through a long imprisonment and lingering illness. He heard God’s invitation to follow him not despite that suffering but because of it. According to the “Utilitarian Gospel,” any means is justified if the end is holy. Francis sold his father’s merchandise so that he could use the money to rebuild a church. But when the bishop called this theft, Francis returned not only the money but even the clothing he wore. And in so doing, he moved to a deeper level of dependence on his heavenly Father. According to the “Bootstrap Gospel,” we need to work hard in order to earn salvation. But see Francis, at the end of his life, apologizing to his body, which he had called “Brother Ass,” for being perhaps too hard on it. According to the “Arrogant Gospel,” we are not bound to obey flawed human authority, whether lay or ordained. But Francis advised his brothers to submit to every local bishop where they preached. “Let it be your singular privilege,” he told them, “to have no privilege.” According to the “Minimal Gospel,” God can’t possibly want me to do that impossible thing! But watch Francis overcome his revulsion and kiss a leper, releasing joy and healing for both of them. See his gentle persistence result in the near conversion of the Saracen sultan. By holding fast to the true gospel—the same one St. Paul defended—Francis discovered the secret of being empowered by the Holy Spirit. And as a result, he was able to do the impossible and leave the outcome to God. “Lord, I have accepted your grace as my salvation, but the path has not always been straightforward. I am so often tempted by variations from the truth! But today, just as St. Francis did, I turn to you and give you my life. Jesus, you are my God and my all!” |
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