The teachings of Pope Francis - Part II

When a person truly knows Jesus Christ and believes in Him, that person experiences His presence in their life. They cannot keep from communicating their experience to others. If this person meets with misunderstanding or adversity, he or she will behave like Jesus.  Jesus answered adversity with love and truth. Brotherly love is the closest testimony we can give that Jesus is alive.

The testimony of faith comes in very many forms. They are all important, even those which do not stand out. In God’s great plan, every detail is important, even my (Popes) humble little witness, even the hidden witness of those who live their faith with simplicity in everyday family relationships, work relationships and friendships.

No one can proclaim the Gospel of Jesus without the tangible witness of one’s life. Those who listen to us and observe us must be able to see in our actions what they hear from our lips. Preach with your life.

Jesus wants to establish with us a relationship which mirrors His own relationship with the Father.

How marvelous it would be if, at the end of the day, each of us could say: today I have performed an act of charity towards others!

How beautiful it would be if each of you, every evening, could say: Today I showed a sign of love towards one of my friends, an older person or my parents.

Do not be content to live a mediocre Christian life.

How are you faithful to Christ? Are you able to make your faith seen? Are you attentive to others, do you notice who is in need, do you see everyone as brothers and sisters to love?

New things always make us a bit fearful, because we feel more secure if we have everything under control. This is also the case when it comes to God. Often we follow Him, we accept Him, but only up to a certain point. Let us ask ourselves today: Are we open to “God’s surprises”?

God is good, let us imitate God.

The world tells us to seek success, power and money; God tells us to seek humility, service and love.

Let us say “Yes” to love and not selfishness. Let us say “Yes” to life and not death. Let us say ”Yes” to freedom and not enslavement to the many idols of our time. Let us say “Yes” to God who is love, life and freedom and who never disappoints us. Let us say “Yes” to the God who is the Living One and the Merciful One.

We are a community. Be like the Samaritan in the Bible and help someone in need. Desire to identify with the person you help. Be willing to share everything. Do not be indifferent to the needs of others.

Charity, patience and tenderness are very beautiful gifts. If you have them you should share them with others.

Recite slowly Psalm 103 (102): “Bless the Lord, O my soul”. Pray it all and you will learn what to say to the Lord when you ask for His grace.

We cannot be Christian in bits and pieces, part-time Christians. We must be wholly Christian and full time Christian.

Every Christian is called to be a bearer of hope that gives serenity and joy. We first experience the joy we give to others by allowing ourselves to be console by Him. We can bring joy to others. This is important if our mission is to be fruitful. We must feel God’s consolation and pass it on to others!