Scripture:
2 Corinthians 1:18-22
Matthew 5:13-16
Reflection:
There is palpable excitement about Pope Leo XIV. And palpable shock that he is from the U.S. Although some seem to think it’s a tribute to this country that “one of us” now leads the Church, I believe the Pope himself would reject that. He loves the U.S, yes, but he loves the Gospel more. He loves those he served as a missionary, even becoming a naturalized citizen of their country. He loves the poor he served – those for whom he carried heavy rice sacks on his back and delivered them on foot, whose flooded streets he tromped, and for whom he constantly embodied the compassion of Christ. Self-congratulations or lauding his roots are far from his heart and focus.
Instead, he focuses on challenging us to deepen our discipleship, perhaps suggesting that too many Catholics have lost their salt or hidden their light under a bushel basket. We get too comfortable in our faith, relying on the fact that we follow the rules (and showing disdain for those who don’t), as if that defines a “good Catholic.”
Pope Leo says our calling is far deeper and broader than simply obeying rules. The very way we live our lives must reflect the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He says we, individually and as a Church, must “make ourselves small” and do as Jesus did – lift up the downtrodden, freely give what we have, care for the poor, bring in the outcast, tend the sick, and share the joy of faith in a living God who created each of us. He strongly warns that falling into desires for power, exclusivity, dominance, wealth, and other lures of the world only serve to distort the Gospel and what Christianity truly is.
As I listen to his words, I know there are many things in America and in my personal life that fall short. Are we, and am I, serving the ones that Jesus would have us serve? Are we, and am I, making myself small so God’s mercy and grace can shine more clearly? How have we, and I, turned a blind eye to those in need, stopped being salty, hidden the light from those in darkness, and perpetuated our own agendas to the detriment of others? In what ways are we, and I, held in the spell of control, money, and exclusion? How often do we, and I, conform to things we don’t believe in, succumbing to powerlessness or fear, rather than taking the risk of standing up for those who will be harmed or left even more desperate as a result?
This week I pray to more fully follow the Gospel of Jesus Christ rather than to hide that light under a bushel basket of my own making. May we all strive to be disciples in the mold of Pope Leo XIV. And may the Spirit ever guide his path as he leads this Church.
Amy Florian is a teacher and consultant working in Chicago. For many years she has partnered with the Passionists. Visit Amy’s website: http://www.corgenius.com/.