paradoxum:: truth in tension

Preach the Gospel in Word and Deed (Review of Saint Francis, by Robert West)

“Preach the Gospel always. And if necessary use words.” This well known quote is often attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi and yet it does not do justice to this Franciscan monk of the 12th and 13th century. Robert West provides a fantastic introduction to the study of the man, the preacher, and the vagabond St. Francis in the Christian Encounters biography series. West tells the skillfully tells the story of his life in a way that is part biography and part narrative. Before his life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ, Francis was a spoiled party boy who dreamed of becoming a knight in the Crusades. He was known in the town as boisterous and indignant, yet later after his conversion he left his boyish ways behind in order to pursue a life of poverty and simplicity. He sold all of his possessions and gave the money to the poor because he wanted to stay away from anything that would compete with his affections for the Lord and keep him from his mission. What started as a small group of friends became known as the Franciscan order of monks with well over 3,000 followers at the time of his death. Francis did more than preach the Gospel with his actions. He also preached the Gospel with his words and left a legacy in his wake.

Believers could all take a lesson from the life of St. Francis and ask what grip do possessions have on our hearts. Or to say it another way, are there mere things in our life that detract from our affection to the Lord. If so, repent. Then sell it. And give the money to the poor.

Reading biographies of the great men and women of God who have gone before us can provide insight into how we should handle struggles, victories, and the day to day aspects of life. 

Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Booksneeze program for the purpose of reviewing.