As Christians, we know that it can sometimes be difficult to discern whether an idea comes from our own thoughts or from God. How wonderful it would be if He simply appeared beside us and clearly told us what to do. Yet such extraordinary revelations are granted to only a few. 

Francis did not receive that kind of guidance. When the need arose to write a Rule for the growing community of friars, he had to determine where to begin. Certainly, some of what he wrote reflected his own experiences and insights, as we discussed last week. But Francis also needed to trust that God would guide him in shaping the Rule. 

In thirteenth-century Assisi, the writings of saints and Church Fathers were not readily available, especially since the printing press had not yet been invented. Francis knew best what he had heard proclaimed and taught. Above all, he knew the Scriptures. It was the Gospel that had inspired his conversion and led him to embrace “Lady Poverty.” It was through the words of Jesus that he had discovered the path he was called to follow. 

For Francis, there could be no better foundation for a rule of life than the Gospel itself. Trusting in God’s guidance, he chose those passages and teachings that he believed reflected the vocation God had given to him and his brothers. 

The goal of the community was simple: to live a holy life. Through a combination of personal insight, prayer, and trust in God’s direction, Francis developed the first Rule that would guide the Franciscan Order for generations to come. 

This week, let us trust that God continues to guide us through His word.