Saint Francis Chooses A Rule for Himself and His Companions

Saint Bernard and Peter, having resolved to join themselves to Francis, went with him to the church of Saint Nicholas at Assisi to find out from the Gospel how the Lord had taught His disciples; but, not knowing how to find the passage about renouncing the world, they devoutly asked the Lord that He would deign to show them His will at the first opening of the book. When they had finished their prayer, Francis took the closed book, and on his knees before the altar opened it, and at the first opening he happened on that counsel of the Lord, 'If you would be perfect, go and sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven.' At this Francis greatly rejoiced, and gave thanks to God; but, being a true worshipper of the Trinity, he wished to be confirmed by threefold testimony, and opened the book a second and a third time. At the second opening he happened on, 'Take nothing for the way,' etc.; and at the third on, 'He that would come after Me, let him deny himself,' etc. Therefore Francis said to his companions: 'Brethren, this is the life and rule for us, and for all who shall wish to join our company. Go ye, therefore, and fulfill what ye have heard.'

- text taken from Franciscan Days: being selections for every day in the year from ancient Franciscan writings, translated and arranged by Alan George Ferrers Howell