Fr. Don's Daily Reflection - October 9, 2024
Psalm 62: “In you alone is my soul at rest. My help comes from You.”
Again, that Bishop of Rome (Francis) refreshes and inspires. Recalling his time as a superior in the Society of Jesus he says: "I did not always do the necessary consultation. And this was not a good thing. My style of government . . . had many faults . . . I made my decisions abruptly and by myself . . . My authoritarian and quick manner of making decisions led me to have serious problems . . . ."
A humble leader of the church gives us two helpful examples whether for our lives as parents or in any capacity where we manage others. Obviously, unlike the usual style of people with such great authority, he admits faults. He says he acted abruptly and with little consultation. This should sound familiar if we have any self-knowledge and even if we haven't explicitly ever admitted the same fault. Admitting mistakes is humbling, good for our spirits and inspiring to others.
And the content of the fault is instructive. How often, theoretically to save time or to be more efficient, have we decided that we know enough, or we know it all? In the process hurting others, possibly demeaning them, and leaving those affected less receptive and possibly even hostile. Enough said . . . .
Psalm 27: “I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness / in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong; / be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord!”
