ST. FRANCIS PREACHING TO THE BIRDS Seven hundred years ago there lived in Italy one of the best men this world has seen. Because he was so loving, we call him St. Francis. He was indeed a true knight, though he did not wear armor. He loved not only people but every living thing. He walked carefully over the stones lest he should hurt some tiny creature. He even took caterpillars out of paths to save them from being stepped on. The birds and animals loved St. Francis as much as he loved them. They knew he was their friend. When he went through the fields flocks of birds followed him and sang to him. Dogs and even fierce wolves licked his hands. One summer day St. Francis saw a large flock of birds in a field beside the road. He ran into the field, saying, "I must preach to my little brothers, the birds." The birds came close to him. Those that were in the trees flew down to listen. "My little brother birds," St. Francis said, "You ought to love God who made you, for He gives you the pure he takes care of you. air for your home, feathers for clothes, and wings to fly with. You do not sow the fields nor reap the grain; but God gives you all you need." While St. Francis was talking to them, the birds stretched out their necks, opened their beaks, spread their wings, and listened. They never moved, even when he touched them. When he had finished he spread out his hands and said, "Now, little brothers, you may go." And the birds flew away. He prayeth best who loveth best He made and loveth all. SAMUEL TAYLOR COLERIDGE |