Love for the poor is the hallmark of faith, pope says in first exhortation
When Pope Leo X1V made this statement at the beginning of his reign, he wished to indicate that just as Pope Francis had emphasised care for the poor he also wished to continue this emphasis. Then he adds, caring for the poor was not something new with Pope Francis but is simply the hallmark of anyone who follows Christ.
Even with Jesus, concern for the poor was not something new. It was well and truly there in the Jewish Scriptures. We see it particularly in the prophet Isaiah who claims that if you want your light to shine, make sure you give bread to the hungry and relief to the oppressed (see Is 58:7-10).
In Matthew’s gospel this same point is made: good works allow your light to shine (see Mtt: 5:13-16). Interestingly, within this same text, Jesus refers to his disciples as the salt of the earth. Clearly, the implication from the whole text is, without good works and care for the poor, we are like the salt that has lost its flavour: useless. Our light cannot shine in the dark.
When therefore you wonder whether or not you are making a difference, remember the teachings in scripture regarding good works. We are called to let our light shine. The enlightenment we have received relating to God and God’s love for all, can only make a difference and be an influence for good when we genuinely love and care for those who need it most.
We live in a complicated world. Who are the poor? Who are the most poor? Is a wealthy drug addict poor? Is a drug dealer poor? The poor can emerge in society in many ways.
It can be a matter of debate as to who is suffering the most? But I think we are aware, those who do not know how to care for the poor, whoever they may be, are the poorest of all. And those who do are the salt of the earth. Their light shines in the dark. But shines on whom: those supported by our good works? Certainly, but hopefully too, on those who need it most – those who have forgotten the poor. And these may well be sitting in our pews!
DISCUSSION: Share your thoughts on ‘good works’ and its’ power to be a light in the dark.
PRAYER
Jesus,
Servant God
Help me serve
Trusting
Just as you
Surrendered
Your earthly life
Allowing your light
Fall
Bringing change.
