I was pleased, fascinated and moved by the Pope’s recent visit to Washington, New York City and Philadelphia. His carefully crafted messages and symbolically rich appearances brought inspiration and encouragement not only to Roman Catholics, but to the faithful of all religious traditions. Speaking with a moral authority rooted deeply in scripture, Francis challenged believers, and indeed, governmental leaders, to live and govern with the courage of biblical convictions.
Whatever one’s political predilection, those familiar with the bible know that themes of equality, dignity, mercy, compassion, servanthood and stewardship are central to the teachings of Christianity. The Pope’s criticism of consumerism, the quest for power and status, the neglect of the poor, the mistreatment of children, the warehousing of the elderly and the abuse of the environment are not evidence of the Pope’s politics, but rather of his intention to live by godly principals. In this regard, he used his U.S. visit for good purpose -- to challenge us to do the same.
Whatever one’s political predilection, those familiar with the bible know that themes of equality, dignity, mercy, compassion, servanthood and stewardship are central to the teachings of Christianity. The Pope’s criticism of consumerism, the quest for power and status, the neglect of the poor, the mistreatment of children, the warehousing of the elderly and the abuse of the environment are not evidence of the Pope’s politics, but rather of his intention to live by godly principals. In this regard, he used his U.S. visit for good purpose -- to challenge us to do the same.
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