What Is Prayer Of Saint Francis? Find Inner Peace

The Prayer of Saint Francis is a beautiful and timeless prayer that has been a source of comfort, inspiration, and guidance for millions of people around the world. It is a powerful expression of the values of compassion, love, and peace that are at the heart of the Christian faith. In this article, we will explore the meaning and significance of the Prayer of Saint Francis, and how it can help us find inner peace in our lives.

The History of the Prayer of Saint Francis

The Prayer of Saint Francis is attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi, an Italian Catholic friar who lived in the 12th and 13th centuries. However, the exact origin of the prayer is not known, and it is believed to have been written by an anonymous author in the 20th century. Despite its uncertain origins, the prayer has become closely associated with Saint Francis, who was known for his devotion to poverty, chastity, and obedience, and his love of nature and all living creatures.

The Text of the Prayer

The Prayer of Saint Francis is a simple yet profound expression of the values of compassion, love, and peace. The text of the prayer is as follows:

“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 despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
And 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.”

The Meaning and Significance of the Prayer

The Prayer of Saint Francis is a powerful expression of the values of compassion, love, and peace. It is a call to action, urging us to be instruments of peace in a world filled with hatred, injury, and darkness. The prayer reminds us that we have the power to make a positive difference in the world, and that by sowing love, pardon, faith, hope, and light, we can bring joy and consolation to those around us.

The Importance of Selflessness

One of the key themes of the Prayer of Saint Francis is the importance of selflessness. The prayer reminds us that true happiness and fulfillment come not from seeking to be consoled, understood, or loved, but from giving, understanding, and loving others. This selfless approach to life is at the heart of the Christian faith, and is reflected in the teachings of Jesus, who said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

Finding Inner Peace through the Prayer of Saint Francis

The Prayer of Saint Francis is not just a beautiful expression of the values of compassion, love, and peace - it is also a powerful tool for finding inner peace. By reflecting on the words of the prayer, and seeking to live out its values in our daily lives, we can experience a deeper sense of peace, joy, and fulfillment.

Practical Ways to Live out the Prayer

So how can we live out the values of the Prayer of Saint Francis in our daily lives? Here are a few practical suggestions:

• Take time each day to reflect on the words of the prayer, and ask God to help you live out its values
• Look for opportunities to show compassion and love to those around you, whether it’s a friend, family member, or stranger
• Seek to be an instrument of peace in your community, whether it’s through volunteering, activism, or simply being a good neighbor
• Practice selflessness by putting the needs of others before your own, and seeking to give rather than receive