A homeless monk who had given all his possessions to the poor was scorned by his parents and his Church. Undaunted, he came upon the ruins of an unknown church. Using the Ancient stones, St. Francis began to build his church. Drawn by the irresistible purity of his intent, many soon joined him. He welcomed those scorned by others: the sick, the poor and the needy. All found refuge in his church, even the animals. Threatened by his simple truths, the local church authorities tore down the stones of his humble mission and scattered them in all directions. Everything lost, St. Francis knew that the truth must be told. He would journey to Rome; his message for the Pope: Communion is not complex. A simple loving act is direct communion with God. St. Francis was willing to die for this truth.
The Sadhana Society asks the question, "What Truth would you die for? What are you willing to give up to know the Truth?" St. Francis gave up everything, but gained the Truth.
As told by Swami Shankarananda.
