Saint Francis could have become a carnival sideshow all by himself if he had failed to foster an attitude of humility. Whatever good we accomplish is due much more to God’s grace and mercy than to our talents and cleverness. This spirit prompted Francis to keep his stigmata a secret as best he could. Many people probably would have given Francis too much credit and God too little credit for this unique gift.
Every spiritual gift is given in order to build up the Body of Christ. Refer every blessing back to God and pray to use it for God’s glory and for building up the Body of Christ.
— from the book Peace and Good: Through the Year with Francis of Assisi by Pat McCloskey, OFM
