Today, the Church celebrates the liturgical Memorial of Saint Francis of Assisi (born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone, 1181/2 - 3 October 1226). Having had a privileged youth thanks to his father who was a silk merchant, Francis chose to renounce his fortune because he recognized the need for a much simpler life. In fact, he was radical in his choice, choosing to live the life of a mendicant (ie begging for his food and for all his physical needs, rather than availing himself of his family's fortune).
Such radical choices are also evident in the gospel passage for today. Jesus calls warning words: Woe to you Chorazin, woe to you Bethsaida, for if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented (Lk 10:13).
Even today, Saint Francis continues to challenge us. Increasingly, voices are calling out for the world to pay attention to climate change; millions of our brothers and sisters live day to day, not knowing whether they will have enough food to feed their families; and many families are living in precarious situations, not even aware in some circumstances that they need help.
Let us pray today for the courage to be agents of change so that we may have eyes to see the mighty deeds that are being done in our midst, so that we can do what we can to be instruments of the Lord's peace.
Have a great day.
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