FRANCIS SPEAKS

FRANCIS SPEAKS

“Let the grace of your baptism bear fruit in a path of holiness. Let everything be open to God; turn to him in every situation. Do not be dismayed, for you can do this in the power of the Holy Spirit, and holiness, in the end, is the fruit of the Holy Spirit in your life.” 

So speaks Pope Francis in his exhortation Rejoice and be Glad.  There is something about this man that captures your attention immediately and makes you want to hear more.  I think it’s because he speaks to us like a brother. Sounds like someone else we’re familiar with, doesn’t it?   Papal pronouncements are not something I read as a rule, but this one is the exception. The Holy Father lays out in simple terms how everyone can achieve holiness by just doing what they are supposed to with honesty, selflessness, and compassion.  

“The important thing is that each believer discern his or her own path, that they bring out the very best of themselves, the most personal gifts that God has placed in their hearts rather than hopelessly trying to imitate something not meant for them.”

For so many, our failings and faults overshadow our gifts to the point that we think we have none.  We have been programmed, as it were, to dwell on correcting our faults instead of building up our gifts.  Still, the idea we can be holy takes some getting used to. Holiness has always seemed to only be possible if one gives over their entire life to prayer and sacrifice.  It is Pope Francis’ intention to disabuse us of this notion.

Jesus never made people feel bad about themselves.  It was his gift to the world, the knowledge that because you are God’s creation, you are valuable right where you are, as you are. It is wonderful to read the same kind of encouragement from the Pope. 

We all have within us the capability to be Christ-like.   The saying, “What would Jesus do?” isn’t corny or trite but a reminder that we ought to strive to imitate Him.  Simply reminding ourselves of Jesus this way gives us time to think before we act or speak, thereby insuring that our choices are the right ones.  This is the path to holiness.

Remember that the Spirit is alive and working at all times and we must be open to the Spirit’s promptings. If we pray for anything, it should be for the insight to hear the voice of God. 

May God bless you as you go about your daily life. May he give you the strength to endure hardships, the courage to stand for what is right and the ability to hear and act on the inspiration of the Spirit. 

Blessings,

Carol Lemelin OPA