Advent with St. Francis: Daily Reflections

by Diane M. Houdek

One of the most beloved saints in history, Francis of Assisi had a special insight into the importance of the Incarnation. From his love of the humanity of Christ, to his celebration of the first Christmas crèche at Greccio, Francis is an ideal guide for prayer and reflection during the seasons of Advent and Christmas. The liturgical readings and the example of Francis combine to offer a unique contemplative experience. By pairing the words and deeds of St. Francis with the Scripture readings for Advent, Advent with St. Daily Reflections helps readers explore how they, too, can live the Gospel in the circumstances of their daily lives. It is written in a simple and engaging style that will draw readers in to the life of Francis as they grow in their faith and spiritual practice through the inspiration of this beloved saint.

Genres: Spirituality, Christian

115 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 22, 2013

Reviews

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This small book offers a fresh look at Lent with St. Francis as our guide. Each daily entry includes: the lectionary readings, a refelction tying the life of St. Francis to the Scripture readings for the day and a closing prayer.

I enjoyed this book because Houder pairs the daily readings with the words and deeds of St. Francis of Assisi. Through them, we are able to see and participate in the type of life he led, particularly during Advent -- a life of simplicity, humility, and spiritual poverty -- focusing on prayer, charity, and the true meaning of Christmas. We are reminded in a loving way what the season of Advent is all about by one of the Church's most loved saints. I look forward to contemplating these daily devotions in more depth this coming Advent.

This book is easy to read, easy to understand, and warms the heart with its wonderfully uplifting and inspiring meditations. It is can be used individually or read aloud and shared with the family. I highly recommend it.

[Seon Ji (Dawn) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not "religious" but interested in religious teachings, and have been trying to educate myself by doing a sort of comparative study on my own.

I thought this was going to have more of an overview about the life of St. Francis and his teachings, and although it did have some of the saints views and deeds mentioned, it was not as I expected.

My bad.

This book is exactly as the title says, daily reflections during the Advent, and nothing more.

Pretty good overall though.

Simple and short.

[Federico Derby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Walk with St. Francis, get to know him, enjoy the trip.

A book for Advent, but hard not to move forward ahead of the specific day you should be reading. Simple writing that makes you think about your own life and how you can make the most of it. Worth the time to read and meditate.

[Dolores Ann]

Outstanding

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

My new favorite book of Advent reflections. How couldn't it be with St Francis?

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread for the last few years. Nice, short daily reflections on the Advent/Christmas season.

[Jason · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great reflections

I've taken to reading during every advent season. A quick easy way to center your thinking each day of advent.

[Dolores Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding.