The teaching on perfect joy stands at the heart of the Franciscan way of life. While it is often remembered as a single story, the Franciscan sources present it in several forms. Together, they invite us not just to admire Saint Francis, but to examine how we live the Gospel while facing the trials and tribulations of life. One version of the story involves Francis and Brother Leo who are traveling together. Francis carefully lists things that might seem like signs of success: preaching well, being admired, growing in knowledge, or doing great works for God. One by one, he sets them aside. Perfect joy, he says, is found when a person is rejected, misunderstood, or treated harshly—and yet responds with patience, humility, and love for Christ.
Resources:
The Writings of Francis of Assisi, “True and Perfect Joy”, (FA:ED I, p. 166 - 167)
The Deeds of Blessed Francis and His Companions, VII (FA:ED III, p. 449 - 450)
The Little Flowers of Saint Francis, Chapter 8 (FA:ED III, p. 579 - 581)
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