The small community rejoiced that Pope Innocent III had approved their way of life. As they left Rome, they spent their journey discussing how they would live out the new Rule they had promised to follow. 

By the time their conversation ended, it was late in the day and they found themselves in a deserted place. Unlike most travelers, they had given little thought to where they would find food. Hungry and exhausted, they searched but could find nothing. Then, quite unexpectedly, they encountered a man carrying bread who shared it with them. They never learned who he was, but the experience encouraged them to place even greater trust in God’s providence. 

The brothers continued on to a place near the city of Orte, where they stayed for fifteen days. They obtained food by begging from door to door and saved whatever remained each day for future use. 

For many people, such a way of life would have been a source of constant worry. For Francis and the brothers, however, it became an opportunity to trust completely in the Lord’s goodness and care. 

Although they enjoyed their stay near Orte, they eventually chose to move on so that they would not become overly comfortable or attached to one place. They also faced an important question about their future. Should they live apart from society or among the people they hoped to serve? Francis trusted that the Lord had called the brothers to win souls and preach the Gospel. Their mission was to live among the people, sharing their lives and bringing others closer to Christ. 

This week, let us trust in God’s providence for our daily needs.