From the Friars: Warning the Wicked

There was a doctor of Sacred Theology of the Order of Preachers who went to visit Saint Francis of Assisi. The learned Dominican questioned the holy man about the meaning of the passage from Ezechiel 33 that is the first reading for today’s Mass. St. Francis replied that he was not educated and it would be more fitting for him to be taught by the theologian. But the humble master insisted that he would like to hear how the little poor man interpreted the prophet’s words. He was especially concerned because he knew many who were apparently living in serious sin but he did not always rebuke them. Would the friar preacher be held accountable for their souls?

Saint Francis replied, “I would take it that the servant of God should be so aflame in his life and his holiness that he would reprove all wicked men by the light of his example and by the words of his conversation.” (2Celano 103) The scholar said to the brothers there, “the theology of this man, … is a soaring eagle; but our learning crawls on its belly on the ground.” Such is the challenge that the Word of God has for us today, and every day.

To admonish the sinner is a spiritual work of mercy and one of the most difficult obligations that we have as disciples of Jesus. He says to us today, “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone.” (Mt 18:15) St. Francis is not denying the need to correct someone directly with words but wanted to emphasize that our most important rebuke is by our example. If someone tells an inappropriate joke and I don’t laugh, they will get the message. If I make a point of generously serving those in need, people will notice and hopefully ask themselves if they are living selfishly.

Let us pray to Our Lady of the Holy Rosary for the grace to always give good example and to have the courage and genuine charity to confront evil.

Peace.

Fr. Peter