We cannot find peace in chaos. In the noise and violence that surround us in this country every day, covering our ears and eyes is easy. Too easy. The real work—the truest and bravest work—is recognizing all of God’s people as living branches on a family tree. The Gospels are not vague about this. Leviticus 19: “When an alien resides with you in your land, do not mistreat such a one. You shall treat the alien who resides with you no differently than the natives born among you.”
When St. Francis approached the leper on that lonely road, his embrace didn’t come with a list of conditions. Love found a home in his heart and radiated outward. He understood that the man before him was not to be rounded up and put away. Not to be feared. He was worthy of friendship, cherished by God, loved beyond comprehension.
—by Christopher Heffron
Franciscan Media
