Francis Casey is the subject of our reading today in the book In Caelo et in Terra. He was a very simple man, and had difficulty with learning. He wanted to become a priest, but struggled greatly in seminary. He joined the Capuchin order, and was eventually ordained as a "simplex" priest, meaning he could say mass but not preach or hear confessions.
He began to work very simple jobs in the monastery, especially working as a porter. This means he answered the door and welcomed people. The folks who came to his monastery started to notice that he gave really good advice full of wisdom, and that if someone came with a need, there were often miracles as a result of his prayer.
He continually reminded everyone that wisdom and healing came from God. When he died at the age of 93, thousands came to his funeral in appreciation for what he'd done for them. You can read more about him here.
Whether you are super smart or struggle like Blessed Solanus (the name he took when he became a Capuchin), God can and will use you. In fact, sometimes He can use us even more effectively in our weaknesses, because we're free from the pride that is so easy to fall into when we do something well.
God, thanks for the example of simple love in this priest. Blessed Solanus Casey, pray for us.
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