If we endure all things patiently and with gladness, thinking on the sufferings of our Blessed Lord, and bearing all for the love of Him: herein is perfect joy.
For One in such a lofty position to stoop so low is a marvel that is staggering. What sublime humility and humble sublimeness, that the Lord of the Universe, the Divine Son of God, should stoop as to hide Himself under the appearance of bread for our salvation! Behold the humble way of God, my brothers. Therefore, do not hold yourselves to be anything of yourselves, so that you may be entirely acceptable to One Who gives Himself entirely to you.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the profound humility of God, exemplifying how He subserves Himself for the sake of humanity's salvation.
In this quote, Francis of Assisi reflects on the astonishing humility displayed by the Divine Son of God, who takes on a simple form of bread to offer Himself for the salvation of humanity. This act serves as a powerful reminder that true worthiness comes not from one’s position or self-importance, but from embracing humility and surrendering oneself to the Divine. It encourages individuals to recognize their own limitations and seek to embrace a path of service and acceptance, embodying a spirit of selflessness akin to that shown by God.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
A pastor might use this quote in a sermon to illustrate the importance of humility in serving others.
More from Francis Of Assisi
All quotes →Jesus is happy to come with us, as truth is happy to be spoken, as life to be lived, as light to be lit, as love is to be loved, as joy to be given, as peace to be spread.
Ask the beasts and they will teach you the beauty of this earth.
By the anxieties and worries of this life Satan tries to dull man's heart and make a dwelling for himself there.
Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars; in the heavens, you have made them bright, precious and fair.
Above all the grace and the gifts that Christ gives to his beloved is that of overcoming self.
Similar quotes
Prayer is the practice of drawing on the grace of God. Don't say, "I will endure this until I can get away and pray." Pray now - draw on the grace of God in your moment of need. Prayer is the most normal and useful thing; it is not simply a reflex action of your devotion to God. We are very slow to learn to draw on God's grace through prayer.
When we discern that people are not going on spiritually and allow the discernment to turn to criticism, we block our way to God. God never gives us discernment in order that we may criticize, but that we may intercede
In the inner stillness where meditation leads, the Spirit secretly anoints the soul and heals our deepest wounds.
Prayer is the supreme activity of all that is noblest in our personality, and the essential nature of prayer is faith.
God answers all true prayer, either in kind or in kindness.
Oh! yes, (the prayer meeting) is the place to meet with the Holy Ghost, and this is the way to get His mighty power. If we would have Him, we must meet in greater numbers; we must pray with greater fervency, we must watch with greater earnestness, and believe with firmer steadfastness. The prayer meeting...is the appointed place for the reception of power.