A Prayer - by St Francis Of Assisi

It is ironic that the prayer that is attributed to St Francis of Assisi was not created by him at all.  St. Francis of Assisi, a friar and preacher, lived from 1182-1226. This prayer that bears his name can only be traced back as far as 1912.  It seems like quite a stretch that the prayer was around for 700 years with no mention of him as the author.  However, one reference in 1936 to St Francis as the author of the prayer has served to seal the deal.  Who really wrote the prayer will probably never be known.

The prayer, which is now internationally known, is another simple prayer.  Simple seems to work well in prayers, doesn’t it?  Personally, I like the prayer (and have committed it to memory in the past) because it takes a proactive approach to Christian living.  It gives specific ways that we can impact our world for God.  It also is other-focused.  It focuses on the needs of others first, then our own.  Which is exactly the opposite focus of most people in our me-first world.  Finally, it ends with a beautiful reminder that if we put others first, our own needs will ultimately be met.  Sounds about right to me!  If everyone would pray and follow this prayer, it would have an amazing impact on our world, wouldn't it?

    Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace,
    Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
    Where there is injury, pardon,
    Where there is doubt, faith,
    Where there is darkness, light,
    Where there is sadness, joy

    O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
    To be consoled as to console,
    To be understood as to understand,
    To be loved as to love

    For it is in giving that we receive,
    It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
    And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Lord, help me to live out the principles of this prayer in my life on a daily basis.  To put others first, just as Jesus did.  In Jesus' name, Amen.