You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. Galatians 5:13
“Do as many lowly, humble deeds as lie in your power, even if you perform them unwillingly at first; for by this means you will form a habit of humility, and you will weaken your vanity, so that when temptation arises, you will be less predisposed to yield, and stronger to resist. Or if you are given to avarice, think often of the folly of this sin, which makes us the slave of what was made only to serve us; remember how when we die we must leave all we possess to those who come after us, who may squander it, ruin their own souls by misusing it, and so forth. Speak against covetousness, commend the abhorrence in which it is held by the world; and constrain yourself to abundant almsgiving, as also to not always using opportunities of accumulation. If you have a tendency to trifle with the affections, often call to mind what a dangerous amusement it is for yourself and others; how unworthy a thing it is to use the noblest feelings of the heart as a mere pastime; and how readily such trifling becomes mere levity. Let your conversation turn on purity and simplicity of heart, and strive to frame your actions accordingly”
Francis de Sales (1567-1622) in Introduction to the Devout Life 121. Francis served as Bishop of Geneva. He had a reputation for the gentle approach he took to the divisions from the Reformation by providing clear directions that confront sin and call for righteous living.
What a joy to travel with my daughter, Sophie, and her boyfriend, Peter! They exhibit what Francis de Sales describes asa “habit of humility” toward others. Like Francis long before them, they point people toward humble obedience to Jesus and gracious sharing with others, and they lead by example.
Today’s post contains rich insights. In response, many questions emerge: Do we reflect on avarice as folly? It is! Do we make money our slave through abundant almsgiving, lest accumulation enslave us? Bank statements tell the true story. Do we speak against covetousness or do our lives reflect it? Integrity matters!
It’s apparent why Francis would help followers of Christ, both Catholic or Protestant, during and after the Reformation. He challenged people to focus on what Christ cares about: generous living that reflects humble obedience to God. What does your life reflect?