Rule 16

Let them esteem work both as a gift and as a sharing in the creation, redemption, and service of the human community.

Rule 16 is an example of God's love, by allowing us to share in the creation, redemption and the service of the human community. Saint Francis realized this probably immediately as a gift from God. Work - ministry or apostolic activity on the part of Franciscans, both on an individual and a communal level, is a blessing to the receiver. No matter what the work, menial, manual labor, hard or easy work, challenging work, this is a gift of God. The guy that digs ditches to lay down a telephone cable will wonder we we're crazy, no doubt, but Secular Franciscans know that all work is a gift of God. By working, we share in the creative power of the Father, renews the face of the earth along with the son and brings the love of the Holy Spirit to the human community. Let us make this a challenge whenever we're working our jobs, gainful employment, as well as in teaching those within our fraternal communities, the Glory and Awesomeness of the love of God.

Return to Menu

5-10-2008