St. Francis de Sales
Be both Martha and Mary. Diligently carry out your duties, and often recollect yourself and put yourself in spirit at the feet of our Lord. Say, “My Lord, whether I’m rushing around or staying still, I am all yours and you are all mine. You are my first spouse, and whatever I do is for love of you.”
—St. Francis de Sales
I read this profound quote from St. Francis De Sales quite by chance. The very moment I laid my eyes on both Martha and Mary, I nostalgically recalled that impactful verse of Jesus as He spoke directly to both Mary and Martha. This connection has always resonated with me, touching my heart deeply both then and still now. As you may remember from an earlier post I shared years ago, I felt a strong connection with Martha and her industrious nature, yet I am continuously striving to embody the qualities of Mary. Reading this insightful quote truly resonated with my feelings! So, who exactly is St. Francis De Sales?
St. Francis de Sales was born in the picturesque Château de Sales on August 21, 1567. He is often depicted alongside the Heart of Jesus and a Crown of Thorns, and he is notably recognized for his influential writings, including the esteemed works "Introduction to the Devout Life" and "A Treatise on the Love of God." In addition to these significant publications, he authored many pamphlets and maintained an extensive correspondence that showcased his deep spiritual insight. From a very early age, he harbored a sincere desire to serve God wholeheartedly. He was aware for several years that he had a calling to the priesthood, but he chose to keep this deeply personal aspiration hidden from his family. His father envisioned a future for him in a career within law and politics, which added to the conflict within Francis. At the age of 24, he successfully obtained his doctorate in law from the prestigious University of Padua.
Despite the pressures surrounding him, St. Francis never lost his fervent passion for God and his spiritual journey. In an effort to appease his father, he also dedicated time to studying fencing and riding, in addition to his theological studies and practicing mental prayers, although he remained discreet about his heartfelt devotion. One fateful day, while he was riding, Francis encountered a remarkable event: he fell from his horse three times throughout the day. Each time he fell, the sword slipped out of its scabbard, and remarkably, every time it happened, both the sword and scabbard would rest on the ground in the shape of the Christian cross. This series of events served as a profound reminder of his commitment to his faith.
Francis became a priest in 1593 against his father's wishes and was appointed provost of the Diocese of Geneva by the bishop. He faced many rejections but did not give up; instead, he wrote pamphlets explaining true Catholic teachings and slipped them under doors. After the death of Bishop Granier in 1602, Francis became the Bishop of Geneva. In 1604, he met (St.) Jane de Chantal, a committed Catholic, and they became friends and she was spiritual guided by Francis. Later, he decided to establish a new religious community and founded The Order of Visitation in 1610. Francis believed the essence of loving God is prayer. He said that those who love deeply focus entirely on their beloved, filled with passion and praise.
When separated, they express their feelings in writing and mark their surroundings with their beloved's name. Similarly, those who love God constantly think of Him, long for Him, aspire to Him, and spread His name. He passed away on December 28, 1622, after advising a nun: "Humility." and was beatified on January 8, 1661 and canonized on April 19, 1665 by Pope Alexander VII.
What can we learn about St. Francis de Sales?
Be humble, Be patient, Be gentle, Be open to God's will,Be devoted to God,Be a good shepherd.
Humility comes from acknowledging God's gifts and our own wrongdoings. He also cautioned against false humility, which is pretending to be humble to gain others' approval. Be patient; accept that people's weaknesses can bring them closer to Jesus. Approach religious differences with gentleness.
Be open to God's divine will, understanding that God intended good for everyone, not just for a select few individuals. Embracing this perspective encourages us to reflect on the broader implications of His love and grace in our lives and in the lives of those around us.
Be devoted to God; individuals should wholeheartedly devote their lives to God through meaningful practices such as prayer, charity, and acts of service. It is essential for people to take the time to care for their communities, fostering connections and supporting one another in various ways.
The Prayer of St. Francis de Sales
Be at peace. Do not look forward in fear to the changes of life; rather look to them with full hope as they arise. God, whose very own you are, will deliver you from out of them. He has kept you hitherto, and He will lead you safely through all things; and when you cannot stand it, God will bury you in his arms. Do not fear what may happen tomorrow; the same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you then and every day. He will either shield you from suffering, or give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imagination.
Patron of Journalists
St. Francis de Sales, Pray for us!
Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.
Peace and Grace.
