DOING THE IMPOSSIBLE

St. Francis was certainly an example of doing the seemingly impossible. Born in 1182, he became disenchanted with his life at age 21. He began to struggle inwardly in prayer and meditation. At a little ruined church in San Damiano on the outskirts of Assisi, a voice from the crucifix ordered him to restore the building. Convinced that Francis was insane, his infuriated wealthy father denounced him, and Francis began his life as the povercello, the little poor man. Francis did not intend to establish a religious order, nor did he anticipate disciples. A diverse group of men and women, however, sought him out. They were the early members of Friars Minor (or the Franciscans). In his Canticle of Brother Sun, Francis and his early disciples musically expressed their faith and communion with God through nature. After another vision, in the church of Portiuncula in 1208, the Friars Minor began their mission of preaching repentance, singing, aiding the peasants in their work, and caring for lepers.

It was not a promising start for Francis. Disenchantment with his lifestyle required a necessary change. Such changes are necessary for most of us. Can the things we do more reflect God’s love? Does our attitude to those less fortunate display Christian concern? Can we reach out to young people, struggling in a confusing, frightening and competitive world, to better understand God’s saving grace?

Francis began to tackle what was possible, the restoration of the Church of San Damiano. What is possible for us? To reach out to someone? To pass on a word, perhaps this Word for the Week, to someone who is hurting and doesn’t know Christ as their personal saviour? Could we be responsible for the restoration of a life? Is that possible?

Francis did the impossible. Not anticipating any support, he founded a order that exists to this day. We may think that there is little we can do to change the course of events, in our lives or in the lives of others. But Jesus will give us the words to say; He will not lead us into any situation that we cannot handle; He will be with us always, to the end of the age (Matthew 28:19,20).

This week they have started a service at our new Snug Village retirement hostel. I shall do what I can to assist and bring the Word of God and the love of Christ to those seniors in their remaining years. If we can bring someone one millimetre closer to Christ, then we have achieved the possible. With God's help, bring that same person into the kingdom, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.

Have a good week. Pastor Ron.

A companion Bible study is available as page 2 of the weekly message. Click here for that study.

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