Nell MohneyI was nowhere near Washington, D.C., New York City or Philadelphia when Pope Francis came to visit the United States. Yet I, a Protestant Christian, was truly blessed by the Pontiff.
There is no doubt about it, he is the world's most popular man, but there is no hint of arrogance about him. In him, I saw the humility and goodness of Christ.
But why did I feel so blessed? First, I saw anew the simplicity and truth of the Christian Gospel. Pope Francis spoke of things that we know and believe but have often let slide in the busyness of life. The Pontiff told us such simple things as "be kind to each other and treat the other person as we wish to be treated."
The Pope also reminds us to speak to each other and try to see another point of view. At one point, he said, "We already know what is right to do. Now, let's just do it." He was asking us to be done with bitterness, live our faith with joy, and serve others.
Secondly, this is only an observation, but from his comments to the priests of the church, I feel that he puts great confidence in the power of the Holy Spirit. I believe that the reason he can be so open and candid is that he stays open to the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
I'm sure that some of this comes from his roots in the more charismatic Latin American Church. For me, the message is also one I learned from the writings of William Wordsworth: "The world is too much with us. Getting and spending we lay waste our powers. Little we see in nature that is ours."
Recognizing this, I will make time daily for quietness and meditation, and for worship each Sunday. Otherwise, I will run out of steam.
Finally, Pope Francis, through his words and actions, reminded me that my time on planet Earth is relatively short and limited. So I will seek to live with purpose and love. The Pontiff truly revived my spirit.
Contact Nell Mohney at nellwmohney@comcast.net.