(1417-1487) Nicholas was born to a wealthy family in Switzerland. He became an accomplished soldier, married, had 10 children, and then worked as a farmer and served as a counselor and judge for his canton (a member state of the Swiss Confederation). After a vision, and with the consent of his wife, he left to live a life devoted to prayer as a hermit. He had the gift of prophecy and regularly had symbolic visions that led to him being a sought-after spiritual director. Nicholas was also reported to have survived with no other nourishment than the Eucharist for 19 years. He helped prevent a civil war and is honored as a father of Switzerland.
From soldier to peacemaker, from father to hermit, Nicholas’ life is filled with contrasts. We are called to serve God in different ways during different seasons of life. How do you seek God’s will for your life and the power to carry that out (Step 11)?
“Make sure that your life is centered on God, and all else will fall into place” (Saint Nicholas von Flüe).
Reflection by Brad Farmer