The Power of Humility: Pope Francis Concludes Virtue Series
As Pope Francis wraps up his General Audience cycle on virtues, he delves into the importance of humility in shaping our Christian lives. Recognizing that we are creations of God and striving to live accordingly is key, according to the pontiff.
By Thaddeus Jones
In his address, Pope Francis highlights how humility can lead to peace on a global scale and bring harmony within the Church. The theme of humility was a focal point in his recent General Audience in Saint Peter’s Square, marking the conclusion of his series on virtues. The Pope stressed the significance of acknowledging our limited nature as creations of God.
Restoring Balance through Humility
Humility, according to the Pope, acts as a counterforce to arrogance, the deadliest of sins. While pride inflates our sense of self, humility grounds us in the reality of our strengths and weaknesses. Drawing inspiration from biblical verses like “we are dust, and to dust we shall return” (Gen 3:19), he warns against the allure of omnipotence.
Embracing a Humble Perspective
Reflecting on the vastness of creation, Pope Francis encourages humility by admiring the awe-inspiring beauty around us, as depicted in Psalm 8:3-4. He points to Jesus’ Beatitudes, which exalt humility as the gateway to Heaven, emphasizing the importance of recognizing our smallness.
Following the Paths of Jesus and Mary
The Pope emphasizes the humility displayed by the Blessed Virgin Mary throughout her life, from her acceptance of God’s will to her unwavering support at the foot of the cross. Her humility serves as a model for all Christians as they navigate their faith journeys.
In closing, Pope Francis underlines how humility paves the way for peace in both individual lives and society at large. Where humility falters, he warns, there lies the potential for conflict and division. By following the humble examples set by Jesus and Mary, believers can secure salvation and fulfillment, as humility remains the key to a harmonious existence.
