One Of God's Finest...
As we continue our walk with the Saints, we are reminded that throughout salvation history, our good and loving God has blessed us with special people in our midst to guide us along the way.

Today, we celebrate one of God’s finest, St. Francis of Assisi, who lived over 800 years ago, and who, by the goodness of his life, still walks with us today. Francis was a true man of God. His devotion to and his desire to follow Jesus, drew many people to the Faith, instilling in them the true and firm belief that nothing compares to being in the presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. This man, referred to during his life as ‘Poverello’  translating to “Poor little man”, is one whose own life mirrored the life of Jesus.  Both were rather insignificant men of their times, who wandered around preaching in small villages, preaching to all who would listen.  Small villages like this one here in Delaware County that we know as Aston.  By word and example, Francis drew man to the Heart of Jesus.

Francis led by example, an example so basic that people easily understood that anyone could do it.  He showed them that seeing the beauty of a life united to God was the true road to happiness, thus winning many hearts for Jesus.  People saw in Francis, a man dedicated to following our Lord, Jesus Christ, and they too wanted to walk in His footsteps.He encouraged people to “Start by doing what is necessary; then do what is possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible”.

The Peace Prayer of St. Francis is how many people know and relate to him today.  We desire to be instruments of peace, to sow love where hatred abides; to pardon every injury; to overcome all doubts with Faith; to fight despair with Hope; to bring light to darkness and to fill with joy, all who are experiencing sadness.

Saint Francis, walk with us today and fill us with your love for Jesus Christ. Invite us into His Glorious Presence, for nothing compares to being there.  Amen!

God Bless You,
Deacon Jack Betzal