October marks the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, beloved for his compassion toward all creatures and his embodiment of humble faith. This week’s lectionary readings, Habakkuk 1:2–3; 2:2–4, 2 Timothy 1:6–8, 13–14, and Luke 17:5–10, shine a light on the perseverance, faith, and service that Saint Francis modeled, inviting us to find inspiration in his gentle love, especially for our pets and all living beings.
The Cry for Justice: Habakkuk’s Lament
Habakkuk begins with a heartfelt plea: “O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not listen?” (Habakkuk 1:2). The prophet questions God about enduring injustice, echoing the cries of all who suffer and long for a world put right. Yet, God’s answer is not immediate; instead, Habakkuk is told to “write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so that a runner may read it” (Habakkuk 2:2). God’s timing often feels slow, but faith means trusting that justice will come, and “the righteous will live by their faith” (Habakkuk 2:4).
Saint Francis faced his own struggles and doubts, especially as he gave up wealth and comfort to live among the poor and marginalized. Like Habakkuk, he persisted in faith, believing God’s vision for a world marked by peace and compassion.
Kindling the Gift Within: Paul’s Encouragement to Timothy
Paul’s letter to Timothy urges us to “rekindle the gift of God that is within you” (2 Timothy 1:6). Timothy is reminded that God gives “a spirit not of fear, but of power and love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7). Paul encourages his young protégé to hold fast “to the sound teaching…in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 1:13).
Saint Francis burned with the gift of love, a love that extended not only to people but to birds, wolves, and all creatures. His spirit of courage and humility teaches us that caring for the vulnerable, including our pets, is part of living out God’s calling.
Faith Measured in Service: Jesus and the Mustard Seed
In Luke 17:5–10, the disciples plead, “Increase our faith!” Jesus replies that even faith as small as a mustard seed can uproot trees and move mountains. He then tells a parable about a servant doing his duty without expecting special praise, emphasizing that true faith expresses itself in humble, consistent service.
Saint Francis exemplified this: tending to lepers, rebuilding churches, and feeding animals were all acts of quiet service. For those who care for pets, this passage is a reminder that even small acts, feeding, walking, or comforting a frightened animal, can be holy when done in the spirit of love.
Saint Francis and the Blessing of Pets
Saint Francis’ feast day is often marked by the Blessing of the Animals in churches around the world. This tradition celebrates the sacred bond between humans and their companion animals. Francis saw all creation as family, calling animals his “brothers and sisters.” His example encourages us to treat our pets not just as possessions, but as fellow creatures deserving respect and kindness.
Whether your pet is a loyal dog, a curious cat, a singing bird, or a gentle rabbit, caring for them can be a spiritual practice, a daily opportunity to embody God’s love and stewardship. In honoring our pets, we participate in the vision Habakkuk wrote, the faith Paul encouraged, the humility Jesus taught, and the compassion Francis lived.
Join us Sunday at 3:00 PM for the Blessing of Pets at our parish!
Living the Vision
This week’s scriptures and Saint Francis’s legacy invite us to persevere in faith, practice humble service, and extend love to all creatures. In uncertain times, may we hold fast to the vision of hope, kindle the gifts within us, and let our everyday acts, especially those toward our pets, be small seeds of faith that grow into a more compassionate world.
Pax et Bonum,
Bishop Greer
