"Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love"
- Francis of Assisi
About this Quote
The quote "Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Where there is hatred, let me plant love" is attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi, a prominent religious figure understood for his deep connection with nature and extensive spirituality. At its core, this quote is a prayer, a plea for magnificent assistance and empowerment to become a vessel of peace and love in a world frequently fraught with discord and displeasure.
The opening phrase, "Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace," recommends a desire for change and service. It suggests that the speaker wishes to be utilized by a greater power-- described as "Lord"-- as a tool or channel through which peace can be manifested in the world. Making use of the word "instrument" communicates a sense of humility and selflessness. An instrument does not run on its own; it requires an assisting hand. This shows the speaker's recommendation of their own constraints and a willingness to be assisted by a force higher than themselves.
The second part of the quote, "Where there is hatred, let me plant love," emphasizes the active role the speaker wishes to take in combating negativity with positivity. The metaphor of "sowing" is substantial, as it evokes the imagery of planting seeds that will grow gradually. This recommends that acts of love, though they might appear little or irrelevant in the beginning, have the prospective to cultivate a greater improvement within neighborhoods and societies. The option to counter hatred with love is a powerful one, as it calls for empathy, understanding, and forgiveness-- qualities that can be challenging to embody, especially in adversarial conditions.
Overall, this quote encapsulates a universal and ageless aspiration for peace and reconciliation. It encourages people to actively contribute to a more unified world by embodying love and compassion in their everyday interactions. This message stays exceptionally pertinent, urging each person to review their capability to affect and catalyze favorable change amid challenges.
About the Author