Chaplain's Reflection
God figured out
Jesus is asked in today’s gospel (Luke 13:22-30) “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” He doesn’t directly answer this impertinent question and his response, ‘Strive to enter through the narrow gate,’ needs some un-packing. Entering by the narrow door might suggest that only an elite group can be saved, as some Christians over the centuries have chosen to interpret the passage. Jesus’ life and mission, his teaching of God’s unfathomable goodness, forgiveness and the salvation offered to all, says otherwise.
“Sinners are filled with joy to hear him speak of God’s unfathomable goodness: even they can hope for salvation. In the Pharisee camp, however, they criticize his message and also his welcoming of tax-collectors, prostitutes and sinners: isn’t Jesus opening up a road to the watering-down of religion and to unacceptable morals?” [Pagola, 2016]
In order to correctly understand the invitation to «enter by the narrow door» we need to remember Jesus’ words that we read in John’s Gospel: «I am the door; the one who enters through me, will be saved» (John 10:9). So, far from watering down or inviting laxity, Jesus’ mission has been to point to the Father and to himself as the means to the Father. Relationship is everything: Jesus’ relationship with the Father and our relationship with the Father through Jesus.
Whilst assuring us of the boundless love of our merciful father, Jesus demands greater rather than lower standards. He calls us to «Be compassionate as your Father is compassionate»; «Don’t judge and you will not be judged»; «Forgive seventy times seven»; «Seek God’s Reign and God’s justice». Particularly he warns against those who figure they are an elect or elite who tick all the boxes, so they are the winners and everybody else is damned.
No one owns or controls God, and we are on shaky ground when we claim to have God figured out.
Legacy of Pope Francis No 3: Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love) (2016)
Taken chronologically this series is a summary of seven of the most important writings of Francis’ papacy.
"Amoris Laetitia," Latin for "The Joy of Love," is an apostolic exhortation by Pope Francis focusing on the beauty and challenges of family life. It reflects on the Synod of Bishops' discussions on the family and emphasizes a pastoral approach that considers individual circumstances and consciences. While reaffirming Church teachings on marriage and family, it encourages a more merciful and understanding stance towards those in difficult situations, urging a focus on accompanying families and individuals rather than judgment.
Key Themes and Insights:
1. Affirmation of Family:
The document celebrates the beauty and importance of family as a foundational unit in society and the Church.
2. Pastoral Discernment:
It stresses the need for pastors to accompany individuals and families, recognizing their unique situations and offering guidance with sensitivity and understanding.
3. Mercy and Accompaniment:
It encourages a merciful approach to those struggling with complex family situations, acknowledging the challenges they face and offering support.
4. Conscience and Discernment:
It highlights the role of personal conscience in moral decision-making, encouraging individuals to seek guidance and make informed choices.
5. Love in Daily Life:
It provides reflections on the nature of love within family relationships, drawing from biblical teachings and personal experiences.
6. Challenges Facing Families:
It acknowledges various challenges faced by families today, including poverty, migration, gender ideology, and the impact of technology.
7. Openness to Grace:
It emphasizes the importance of openness to God's grace and the role of the Church in fostering spiritual growth within families.
8. Prayer and Hope:
It concludes with a prayer to the Holy Family, expressing hope for the continued flourishing of family life.
In essence, "Amoris Laetitia" calls for a more compassionate and nuanced approach to family life, inviting the Church to meet people where they are and to accompany them on their journey, while upholding the core teachings on marriage and family.
Deacon Mark Kelly
College Chaplain