Fr. Scott Haynes
St. Clare of Assisi, born Chiara Offreduccio, is a beacon of faith, humility, and unwavering devotion. Her life, intertwined with that of St. Francis of Assisi, presents a story of radical commitment to Christ, characterized by her profound virtue and steadfast resolve. Clare's journey is illuminated by images and teachings from the Bible, mirroring her virtues and inspiring countless individuals throughout history.
Clare was born into a noble family in Assisi in 1194. Despite her privileged upbringing, she was deeply influenced by the teachings of St. Francis. At eighteen, Clare left her family's wealth and comfort to embrace a life of poverty and devotion, mirroring the call of Christ to the rich young man in the Gospel of Matthew:
"If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me" (Matthew 19:21).
Her act of leaving behind her worldly possessions was an embodiment of the virtue of poverty. This virtue, so central to her life, is reflected in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount:
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3).
Clare's spiritual poverty was not merely an absence of material wealth but a profound recognition of her complete dependence on God. This virtue attracted many followers, leading to the establishment of the Order of Poor Ladies, later known as the Poor Clares.
St. Clare's humility shines through in her writings and actions. Despite being the abbess of her community, she referred to herself as the "handmaid of Christ." This echoes the humility of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, who described herself as the "handmaid of the Lord" (Luke 1:38). Clare's humility was also evident in her deep sense of service and care for her sisters, always placing their needs above her own.
Her humility is celebrated by St. Bonaventure, who wrote,
"Clare shone in the world as a radiant star, illuminating the darkness of this world with the light of her exemplary life and her teachings."
Her life was a testament to the words of St. Paul:
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves" (Philippians 2:3).
St. Clare's faith was unshakable, even in the face of great trials. During an invasion by the Saracens, she displayed remarkable courage and trust in God. According to tradition, Clare held up the Blessed Sacrament at the convent gates, and the attackers, struck with fear, retreated. This event echoes the biblical story of David and Goliath, where faith in God triumphed over seemingly insurmountable odds (1 Samuel 17). Clare's faith, much like David's, was not in her strength but in the power of God.
Her devotion to the Eucharist was profound. She spent long hours in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, finding strength and solace in the presence of Christ. This devotion is reminiscent of Mary Magdalene, who, after encountering the risen Christ, declared,
"I have seen the Lord" (John 20:18).
Clare's deep Eucharistic devotion has inspired many, reminding the faithful of the importance of drawing close to Christ in the sacrament.
St. Clare's charity and compassion were boundless. She cared for the sick and the poor, embodying the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). Her life was a living testament to the commandment of Jesus:
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John 13:34).
Her loving care for others earned her the admiration and respect of many, including St. Francis, who called her the "little plant" that he had nurtured in the garden of the Church.
Thomas of Celano, a contemporary biographer of St. Francis, wrote of Clare:
"Who could ever express the deep affection Clare felt for her sisters? She had them inscribed on her heart and carried them in her prayers."
This love and care are reflective of the biblical Ruth, who said to Naomi,
"Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay" (Ruth 1:16).
Clare's commitment to her sisters was unwavering, marked by a deep sense of solidarity and familial love.
St. Clare was also known for the many miracles attributed to her intercession. One notable miracle occurred when Clare, seriously ill and unable to attend Mass, was said to have seen and heard the entire service on the wall of her cell, as if it were being projected. This miracle led to her being named the patron saint of television and screens. Another miracle involved multiplying loaves of bread to feed her community during a time of scarcity, reminiscent of Jesus' miracle of feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1-14).
In another instance, when Clare was bedridden and near death, the Pope himself came to offer her communion. After receiving the Eucharist, Clare rose from her bed, completely healed, and continued to serve her sisters. This miracle highlights her profound connection to the Eucharist and her unwavering faith in its power.
St. Clare's legacy continues to inspire. Pope Pius XII, in his encyclical "Clara Lux," described her as a "light for the faithful," whose example of holiness and devotion continues to illuminate the path of many. Her life serves as a powerful reminder of the virtues of poverty, humility, faith, and charity.
St. Clare's story is a tapestry woven with threads of biblical imagery and profound virtue. Her life echoes the call of Christ to leave behind worldly attachments and follow Him wholeheartedly. Her unwavering faith, deep humility, and boundless charity offer a timeless example for all who seek to live a life dedicated to God. As we reflect on her life, we are reminded of the words of St. Francis, who said,
"Let us begin again, for up until now, we have done nothing."
Comentarios