Encountering Jesus in the Gospel

St. Francis came to know Christ by becoming “fluent” in Scripture, especially the Gospels. As Secular Franciscans, we are called to make Scripture an integral part of our prayer life.

Thomas of Celano, Francis’ first biographer, wrote, “Francis used to recall with regular meditation the words of Christ and recollect His deeds with most attentive perception. Indeed, so thoroughly did the humility of the Incarnation and the charity of the Passion occupy his memory that he scarcely wanted to think of anything else.” (FA:ED Vol.1, p. 254)

Articles 4 and 5 of the Secular Franciscan Rule

 

4. The rule and life of the Secular Franciscans is this: to observe the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ by following the example of Saint Francis of Assisi, who made Christ the inspiration and the center of his life with God and people.

 

Christ, the gift of the Father's love, is the way to him, the truth into which the Holy Spirit leads us, and the life which he has come to give abundantly.  
Secular Franciscans should devote themselves especially to careful reading of the gospel, going from gospel to life and life to the gospel.

5. Secular Franciscans, therefore, should seek to encounter the living and active person of Christ in their brothers and sisters, in Sacred Scripture, in the Church, and in liturgical activity. The faith of Saint Francis, who often said “I see nothing bodily of the Most High Son of God in this world except his most holy body and blood”, should be the inspiration and pattern of their eucharistic life.

 

+The following is a wonderful way to get to know Jesus better. You can do it alone during your prayer time; with a prayer partner; with your fraternity as an ongoing formation series.

 

+Read one of the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark or Luke). While reading, focus on the person of Jesus and then discuss or answer these questions in your journal:
 

1. With whom did Jesus spend his time?
2. How did he relate with the apostles, the Pharisees and Sadducees, the poor and suffering? His friends and family?
   What message did he give to each?
3. How did these different groups of people respond to Him?
   
4. What did Jesus talk about most?
5. How did Jesus refer to God?  How frequently?
6. What were Jesus’ deepest desires? What made him angry?
7. What is one thing that surprised you about Jesus?

 

Thank you to the National Formation Commission for sharing an activity that will be found in our new formation materials.

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