May 20, 2005

Those who have ears, listen!

Now that the events of the past month are over and the media has returned to normal, I am reminded of a phrase Jesus used, “Let those who have ears, listen.” The world was touched by the recent scenes at the Vatican; my own emotions have fluctuated between sorrow and joy. Right after the election of our new Pope, Benedict XVI, I saw an interview between him and Raymond Arroyo. As a cardinal, he had asked to retire three times: in 1991, 1996, and 2001. Each time, Pope John Paul II asked him to stay on. Now he has an even greater task to accomplish – carrying a large cross. It reminds me of Peter’s threefold question… Do you love me? It also rings of three falls on the way to Calvary, only to stand back up and carry the cross - to be crucified. Pope Benedict accepted his election and continues to crucify his personal desire for something greater. He was chosen by election – one for the sake of others.

Looking back, it has been almost a year since I was personally challenged to pick up John Paul II’s writings and digest them myself. That challenge came from one of my brothers who was speaking about ongoing formation. It’s as if he were saying to me, “Amen, Amen, I tell you, take stock of what the Pope is telling you.” In reminding us of the foundation of holiness, Baptism, John Paul II quotes: “Abide in me that you might bear fruit in abundance.” (cf. Jn 15) Contemplating the face of Christ, we must abide with Him to learn how to be true children of Our Father in heaven. Since that is what we are, let us also hear the words and example of Jesus, “You are chosen, not only for yourselves, but for others.”

So, in my daily experiences as a friar and as a local servant, I have to stand in duty because of the office I’m entrusted with and give up some of my personal preferences. It is a personal sharing of the gospel: “If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.” It is the same for all of us in any committed relationship, especially as disciples of Jesus Christ. These two men have given us great examples of heroic virtue. In the footsteps of Saint Francis, let us thank God for the gifts of these Vicars of Christ and not only listen to their voices, but act on them with all abandonment.

Br. John Paul Ouellette, CFR
Local Servant, St. Fidelis Friary, Canning Town, England

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