It is said that Francis of Assisi gave away everything he had…his standing in the community, name, personal wealth, friends, even his family. Legend has it that he stripped out of his elegant robes, a public spectacle, and walked about from life into Life. His heart was changed and he changed the world. Like Jesus, Francis took the form of a servant and called others to his side. Out of those efforts and on behalf of the lost in his time, Francis produced this remarkable prayer that has borne his name forever…The Peace Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi. Reflect on these magnificent words with me:
“Lord, make me an instrument of your peace…”
The first word of the prayer reveals that Francis is no longer bound to rich family life, wealth, or power. Francis has a “Lord” who gives life and is life. Francis no longer belongs to himself. “Make me…” Transform me! Reshape me! Shape the clay any way you desire, not into more abundance but into new poverty. “An instrument” What instrument would you be if you had the choice? Francis became the soft, authentic, completely honest music of the harp, truly an instrument of peace. “Your” peace, not mine.
Begin this day praying the words of Francis and then again and again and again throughout the morning and into the heat of the day. Reflect on the words, be with them until they quietly become your own word. May peace find you and embrace all your busy-ness.
Shining Spirit 
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