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Where there is injury,
let me sow pardon.

Francis' relevance to my crisis (our military involvement in Iraq) became apparent when I discovered that Francis went to the Holy Lands during the Crusades and accomplished a miracle.   

Imagine:

Francis and several of his brothers traveling on a small ship to the Holy Lands, perhaps on a pilgrimage or to set up a community of Franciscans.  Upon arrival, they discover that the Europeans are attacking Egypt.  If the Europeans can conquer Egypt, they can block the supply of grain to Palestine. Then Palestine will fall to the Europeans.

Francis and the brothers go immediately to the battlefield in Damietta, Egypt.  The are shocked to discover their fellow Europeans committing many atrocities (in the name of the church) to Muslim men, women, and children.

The Europeans are also suffering large casualties, but are unwilling to consider Francis' suggestions for a peaceful resolution.  They will only accept a total defeat of the Muslims at any cost. 

Where there is darkness,
let me sow light.

Francis receives an inspiration.  Since he cannot change the approach of the Europeans, he will convert the Muslims to Christianity to end the fighting. 

Where there is doubt,
let me sow faith.

Francis would not accept the impossibility of this task or the probability it would lead to his death. While the Muslims allowed Christians to practice their beliefs, they were forbidden to attempt conversion of the Muslims.  Anyone attempting this would be beheaded.  

Now imagine:

With extreme confidence necessary for this impossible challenge, Brother Francis and Brother Illuminato journeying across the battlefield to the gates of the city.

Requesting an audience with the sultan, they are immediately taken captive and thrown into prison and confined with chains.

Continued
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