He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed. Proverbs 3:34
Just a brief note on the passing of Pope Francis last week. He was a simple, humble, yet profound man, leader of the largest group of Christians in the world, and underappreciated in his time. He opted for simple things, favored the poor and marginalized, and emulated his namesake Francis of Assisi.
We do not truly appreciate the great among us while they are alive, and I expect that this is a typical human trait. Maybe we feel freer to lionize people after their death. Perhaps we do not really recognize greatness until it is passed. Such a shame.
I will have more to say on Pope Francis later, but for now- we already miss you.
Prayer: Lord, we thank you for the life and witness of Pope Francis, your beloved son, Amen
Reflections of a Counselor 
Pope Francis’ actions included ALL people just as I envision Jesus’ actions. He was my first pope.
While I didn’t grow up Catholic, my grandparents, especially my grandfather, were devote servants and participants in their local church.
They always invited us to attended church with them. They encouraged us to sing from the hymnal, helped us find bible verses and nodded approval when joining in proper responses to prayer. At younger ages, we loved the variety of standing, kneeling, sitting and genuflecting. I remember the feeling of community as we participated in all these catholic things.
As my faith developed and I especially after I was able participate in communion at our home church, I my feelings about attending my grandparent’s church changed. They’d move out of the pew and moved toward the priest with outstretched hands in the front of the church, we’d be left behind. We weren’t catholic worthy enough to receive the host or be greeted by the Priest.
As I started my comment, Pope Francis was a man who lived his life as I envisioned Jesus had and ALL are welcome. I’m reflecting on ways I can put his example into action. Whose feet should be washing?
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Thank you for your thoughtful and poignant comment! Blessings!
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