Memorial of St. Francis de Sales
Jesus was so consumed with zeal that his family thought he was out of his mind! If we follow in His steps, will people think we are of our minds, too?
Our Gospel reading today, which is a direct continuation of the passage of yesterday’s, strongly indicates how demanding the public ministry of Jesus was. So demanding was His ministry such that He needed helpers/collaborators which was why He selected His apostles, as we heard in the account of yesterday.
Jesus’ Pastoral Choice: Availability
In today’s account, we heard how He and His disciples came home to freshen up, eat and rest; yet their space was invaded. They had no choice but to be available to the needy people. This was the kind of pastoral need/demand that made Jesus to say: The harvest is rich, but the labourers are few… (c/f Mtt 9:37-38; Lk 10:2).
Inspired by this kind of pastoral philosophy of availability, Jesus forgot about His need for self-care. He literally sacrificed even His private time for the sake of those in need of love, healing and who hungered for the Word of God. Unfortunately, His zeal was so misread by His relatives as they went to seize Him because they thought He must be out of His mind.
The Price of Passion: Compliments and Criticisms
When we love what we do, and do it passionately, it can equally attract both great compliments and demoralizing criticisms. To some, our passion will give them inspiration to not give up on themselves; while to others, it might look like one is showing off. Jesus had His priorities and He followed these priorities even at the great risk of being labelled reckless/unbalanced. His comfort and even His family were secondary to Him.
St. Francis de Sales: A Gentle, Patient Bishop
St Francis de Sales, whose memorial we celebrate today demonstrated such great zeal in a radical way contrary to the worldly standard. Francis lived at a time when there was tough religious conflict/opposition. Rather than responding with harshness, he chose patience. He approached all oppositions with gentleness, patience, and clarity. So radical was his gentleness that his philosophy was: “Nothing is so strong as gentleness; nothing so gentle as real strength.” Another famous quote credited to him says: “A spoonful of honey attracts more flies than a barrel of vinegar.”
Will they think we’re out of our minds?
In a nutshell, in contrast to Jesus who was seen to be out of His mind, St Francis de Sales teaches us how to live in toxic situations without losing our peace. Let us choose patience over arguments, persuasions over violence and love over condemnation. To many, this might make us look like we are out of our minds.
0 Comments