As I was reading the reading from the Acts of the Apostles, I could not help but think of Pope Leo, the successor to St Peter today. In his courage to be the moral voice of the church and challenge war and violence, he shows us what the Christian is called to do. We are to speak the truth of Jesus no matter what. Today’s reading reminds us of the cost, but we are also reminded that the Lord will take care of us. God sent an angel to free the Apostles from prison; God will protect us when we speak the truth also. As a Roman Catholic, the Holy Father shows the way to live the message. We are to speak the truth with boldness.
One of the biggest tensions in the history of the Church has been its relationship with civil governments. As the moral voice, the Church cannot compromise because a government is not happy. The Gospel of Jesus Christ transcends all government borders and politics. We are to be the salt and leaven. Salt seasons the world and it can be an irritant. Leaven works unseen in dough to help it raise. The Christian community is to season the world with the Gospel and be an irritant when society strays. The voice of the Holy Father is working in the world to enable the Christian community to boldly proclaim Jesus and him alone.
No one has ever won a war. Women remain widows and children lose their parents. Anger and hatred grows in those who “lost” and egos can be puffed by those who “win.” We never seem to explore peaceful ways to solve issues and differences.
Pope Leo is calling the world to see a different way.
Are we willing to have Jesus open our eyes?
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