The Way of Peace Is the Servant’s Way
The essence of St. Francis’ teaching in the prayer that bears his name is that we must walk the Servant’s Way to become instruments of peace.
This Servant’s Way presumes that we already properly love ourselves because we have recognized that not only are we children of a generous God who gives us every good thing, but also that we are One with our God. We are not just made in God’s image, we are made with God’s Divine spark to enliven us.
In this knowledge that we are loved, competent, and worthy children of an unconditionally loving God we continue The Prayer of St. Francis:
Divine Master, grant that I may not seek so much to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.
What amazing gifts to give: consolation, understanding, and love. Yet once we’ve securely embraced our Oneness with God and once we’ve recognized also that we are intrinsically one with everyone else, what else is there to do? If others are in pain, we give them the unconditional Love we’ve been given. Yes, we still experience hurt, misunderstandings, and we still need the love of others. But if we want to become instruments of peace we must be among those who reach out first.
A life lived for others is the only life worth living. Albert Einstein
Is there someone from whom I wanted consolation, understanding, or love who really needs me to take the first step? Am I secure enough in God’s love for me that I can do that?