His Heirs Will Want for Nothing

 “I, like a green olive tree in the house of God, trust in the mercy of God forever and ever.” Psalm 52:10

I am sure there are so many many olive trees in God’s Kingdom, lush and fruitful. How wonderful to be one of them, in the company of a forest of trees tended by God! We can be sure we will never want for anything we need. Lots of sunlight, adequate water,  free draining soil, and a timely and kind pruning! I feel so loved even as I reflect on this. 

Saint Francis once sought an audience with Pope Innocent III in 1209 to gain authorization to form a new religious order that followed strict rules of poverty and service. There was much discussion because the Pope and his advisers thought the rules were too severe. 

God gave Francis a parable to share with the Pope about a rich King who fell in love with a poor, beautiful woman who lived alone in a vast desert. They married and had children and when the children grew older, the woman told the children to return to their Father the King. “You share His likeness and you need not fear. Being His heirs means that you will want for nothing."

Francis explained earnestly to the Pope, “The sons and heirs of the Eternal King should not fear hunger or want, for they have been born from a humble mother through the power of the Holy Spirit, formed in the image of Christ the King. They’re nurtured by a spirit of poverty within our little religion. Just as the King of Heaven promises an eternal kingdom to His followers, He and His Majesty will surely provide for all, whether they are good or bad.” 

The Pope listened and gave his approval, saying that Francis should return when the Lord increases the number of followers in his order. 

Each of us has a role to play in building God’s Kingdom on earth. Let us seek God and ask Him how in our humble way we may join in His mission, trusting He will provide and show us the way.