Knock, Knock... It's Pope Francis!

Thursday of the First Week in Lent

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Gospel of Matthew 7:7-12

Jesus said to his disciples:  "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened....."

Happy Anniversary! Today marks the 1 year anniversary of Pope Francis' pontificate.  I think today's gospel reading is very appropriate for the occasion.  During last year's conclave, Catholics around the world knocked on Christ's door asking him to bless us with a holy and effective new leader of the Church.  I think we got more than we asked for!  Papa Francis is awesome!!  I just love his friendly smile and down-to-earth appeal.  His writing is easy to read as well as thought-provoking.  This humble servant of God appeals to all, both Catholics and non-Catholics alike, with his sensibility, his love of the poor, and his cheerful presence. 

This week I just happen to receive my Vatican Pope Francis w/ basilicas rosary in the mail along with a papal blessing!  The rosary is beautiful.  When I hold it in my hands, I can feel the Pope Francis' warmness in my heart even though he's not physically present with me. 

Pope Francis is the best thing that's happened to the Church in years.  I thank God every day for listening to the needs of the faithful.  He heard our knocks loud and clear.  We asked and received a wonderful "papal blessing" in the form of Pope Francis himself!

The Door Opens  We knock on Christ's heavenly door asking for mercy, forgiveness, and healing.  We ask for the strength to carry on with life's burdens and struggles.  We ask the Lord to touch our minds and hearts to become more like him in our actions and deeds.  Surprisingly, Our Lord's door isn't ever locked.  I think of it as "slight ajar" inviting us to come talk to him any time 24/7!  Pour out our thoughts so he can help us. When we seek out the Lord, he blesses us immensely.  However, when we walk away from the door ajar, passing by him in disbelief, we will find our struggles just a little more inflicting and unsettling.  How uplifting to know we can turn to God in prayer at anytime.  No appointment necessary!  We just walk into his heavenly studio, sit down on the long "psych" couch, and have a private conversation with him. Allow Christ to feed our souls with love and compassion.

Ask, seek, knock - The Lord will always be there!

-J.