“Then every scribe who has been instructed in the Kingdom of Heaven is like the head of a household who brings from his storeroom both the new and the old.”
This particular line from today’s Gospel caught my attention. I imagine Pope Francis as the scribe who uses both the old ideas and practices as well as considering new issues to instruct us on the Kingdom. He knows what to teach because God has instructed him during the course of his priestly vocation. Our tradition tells us that when the white plume of smoke arises out of the Vatican during a conclave, we have a Pope. The Pope is chosen by the direction of the Holy Spirit. Surely some lobbying by various groups of cardinals may likely happen. But, ultimately the third member of the Trinity directs the choice.
Yet, there are many who question the choice. Today the Catholic Church seems to be divided by those who support Pope Francis and those who criticize Pope Francis. And that division is played out quite loudly by both the secular and non-secular media. Disagreements arise in all families. Today instead of a healthy discussion, our church is caught between voices that either demand silence from those who disagree or voices that are strident and mean spirited. In all honesty, this scenario has probably happened throughout the history of the Catholic Church. It’s just that now there is the 24-hour news cycle that enjoys highlighting controversy!
Wisdom and Understanding
Today’s first reading from the first book of Kings talks about King Solomon. Solomon cries out to God: “…I serve you in the midst of the people whom you have chosen, a people so vast that it cannot be numbered or counted. Give your servant, therefore, an understanding heart to judge your people and to distinguish right from wrong. For who is able to govern this vast people of yours?” I don’t know what readings are used in the commissioning of a new Pope, but I think this supplication of Solomon’s must be on the mind of any new Pope. How is he to weave together all the various needs and desires of all Catholics and still remain true to the beliefs of the Church? I pray that our Pope will have a “heart so wise and understanding” as God gave to Solomon. But I believe the faithful need to recognize that the Holy Spirit, far wiser than any of us, has chosen a certain man for a certain time to lead us.
To Follow our Calling
Finally, consider the opening words of this day’s second reading from Romans. “Brothers and sisters: We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” Pope Francis is called to lead as the head of our Catholic household. We are called to be the faithful members whom he instructs.
Our son, Jeff Hogan, lives in Apex, is one of the WRAL on camera news anchors who has done many charitable speaking engagements in Raleigh area, as well as in Columbus, Ohio, where he spent in excess of 20 years as a sports anchor. Don’t tell him I recommended him. I don’t like to meddle in his business affairs. He may be able to assist your cause in some way.
Thank you for a well written interesting article.
T C Hogan