This spirit of humility acts as the foundation for all subsequent characteristics that compose a Franciscan approach to ministry. Francis was less concerned about what someone did in the world than about how someone did it. Here we see the saint’s admiration for the humility of Christ emerge as part of the centerpiece of his spirituality; to be a Franciscan is to live the Gospel by following in the footprints of Jesus Christ. ~Francis of Assisi and the Future of Faith by Daniel Horan OFM
Humility and Francis’ understanding of Perfect Joy are closely linked, as they come from the same source, namely the Love of God.