More than Animals: Francis of Assisi

When was the last time you stripped in front a gathering of your hometown, with the local bishop and your own father in attendance? When was the last time you kissed a leper? When was the last time you walked unarmed into the camp of your civilization’s enemy, to preach Christ? These colorful events are a few of many in the life of the saint. On another occasion, Francis preached to the birds. I preached to a parrot once, but he said he’d only accept the Gospel if I gave him a cracker (I apologize to members of Polly’s family for this joke).

Francis was born in Assisi, Italy, in 1182. His father was a wealthy cloth merchant. Francis showed more interest in parties and poetry, friends and fanfare, than he did in God. As a teenager he wasn’t particularly interested in his father’s business or his academic studies. He was enjoying the good life. At twenty, he joined the local army in a battle against a rival city state. Perhaps Francis saw this as an opportunity to become a romantic hero and win renown for himself through valor on the battlefield. Instead, he was captured and imprisoned. 

After his release, he began to encounter the poor and they began to affect him in a new way. In one encounter, he exchanged his expensive attire, for that of a poor man’s clothing. During this period, he began to reflect upon his life and to pray over his sins. These and other incidents culminated in his renouncing his wealth and position in order to live simply among the poor. This move was directly inspired by the words of Jesus, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me" (Luke 9:23 NRSV). He preached simple sermons. He cared for the sick and the outcast. He begged for his food. 

I know what you’re thinking: "Wow! That sounds like an exciting life, with comfortable accommodations and interesting people with glittering Instagram accounts. Sign me up." In fact, that is exactly what happened! (Minus the Instagram accounts, Francis’ handle @Liveswith Lepers never went viral). Women and men, from many walks of life began to follow Francis as he followed Christ through the path of poverty. Francis was not sullen. Francis radiated joy. He passionately loved God, people, and of all of creation. (Oh yeah, his feast day is October 4).

Very quickly, men joined Francis in being “little brothers” or friars minor. Thanks to Clare of Assisi, women soon followed.  Over 800 years later, people continue to be inspired by the life and witness of this poor man from Assisi. In popular devotion, Francis is near the top of the heavenly all-star list. Did he love animals? Yes, from the birds to the wolves. Did he love creation? Yes, from brother sun to sister moon. Did he love people? Yes, from the prince to the peasant. But most of all, inspiring all his other loves, was Francis’ love for God.