January 7

NEW YEARS CONFESSIONS

     I was a bit stunned to hear that Pope Francis recently gave an address to the cardinals and bishops of the Roman Catholic Church in which he urges them to confess their “sins” in today’s language.  He mentions “spiritual Alzheimer’s”, excessive activity, gossip and chatter, a “funeral face”, hoarding, and money and power among other diseases and temptations which also endanger every Christian.  

    The pope goes on to say that the same God who “is born in poverty in a cave in Bethlehem to teach us the power of humility was welcomed not by the chosen people but by the poor and simple.”  He went on to say that those in the church cannot live without having a “vital, personal, authentic and solid relationship with Christ.” 

    These are inspiring and challenging words which point to the spiritual underpinnings of every Christian and every church.  We sometimes say that “church is a business”.  That is true, however it is much more than just a business.  It is to be a sign of the presence, promise and power of God in the world.  The church is the potential for good where goodness is in short supply. It is the hope of new life in Christ in the midst of despair.   

    We can sometimes feel deflated when the actuality of any organization including the church does not appear as advertised.  We can become disappointed or even disgusted at what is occasionally done in Christ’s name.  We need not get stuck there!

     I find it refreshing the the pope is calling for confession by church leaders. Confession offers a way to get back to the basics of our faith. And confession is good for the soul. Why not find some time in these first days of 2015 to confess whatever keeps you from the joy of Christ?  What do you feel moved to confess as this new year dawns?