Are you among those who think Pope Francis is a heretic? There are plenty of people who express their frustration at some of the things he says and does.
Well, I say, not so fast.
Some of what he says may be challenging, especially to those who want to make the Catholic Church into an exclusive club.
I was thinking about that today when I was reflecting on the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 5, Verses 1-11. It's the passage that recalls Simon being told by Jesus to lower his nets--after a long night of fishing and catching nothing. On Jesus' command, Simon (Peter) lowers his nets and catches an abundance of fish.
Jump forward. Pope Francis, as the successor of Peter, has a responsibility to open wide the doors of the Church so as to draw in an abundance (of people).
When we follow what God calls us to do, the consequences go far beyond what we can ever imagine.
Let's not be so quick to discount Pope Francis. People were quick to discount Jesus in his day because they couldn't comprehend what he said and did.
I've always said, God is much more loving, merciful and welcoming than many of us, particularly those who want to slam the church doors under the pretense of righteousness.
To quote a wise priest I know, "People like to make God small."
Why do we do that?
Let his love and forgiveness flow over you today and free you from whatever is burdening you. Trust in the largess of God.
Janet Cassidy
Email me at: jmctm2@gmail.com
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