Celebration: St Francis of Assisi
(1182-1226). Born in (Italy). He lived and preached a life of poverty and love of God to all men. He founded the religious Order of the Franciscans; with St. Clare, the Order of the Poor Clares; and the Third Order for lay people.
(1182-1226). Born in (Italy). He lived and preached a life of poverty and love of God to all men. He founded the religious Order of the Franciscans; with St. Clare, the Order of the Poor Clares; and the Third Order for lay people.
Table of the Word
First Reading: Baruch 4:5-12, 27-29
Gospel: Luke 10:17-24
Theme: ...even in trials, God’s faithful love endures.
And He whispers: “Take courage, my children, and cry to God, for you will be remembered by the One who brought this upon you.”
Reflection
In the first reading, Baruch offers consolation to a people in exile reminding them that though they suffer now, God has not abandoned them. Their tears will turn to joy when they return to Him (cf.Baruch 4:5-12, 27-29). This is the heartbeat of hope: even in trials, God’s faithful love endures.
The Gospel pericope taken from Luke 10:17-24 portrays the disciples returning with joy, excited about their mission and the power they witnessed in Jesus’ name. But Jesus redirects their joy: not in what they do, but in the fact that they belong to God. The deepest source of our peace is knowing our names are written in heaven.
Today we also celebrate St. Francis of Assisi, the poor man of Assisi whom I often referred to as "patron of nature" whose radical love for Christ and creation continues to inspire the Church. Francis found joy not in earthly possessions or achievements, but in total surrender to God. He lived the Gospel literally, embracing simplicity, poverty, and fraternity with all creation. In him we see the Gospel come alive, one whose joy was rooted in being God’s child, not in the world’s applause.
Like Francis, we are called to live with open hands: trusting God in times of trial as Baruch encourages us in the first reading. When we do this, we will rejoice that heaven knows our name as Jesus assures us, and finding in simplicity and humility the path to true freedom.
+ Peace be with you.
© ARCHIVE 04102025
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