fiat

Top 3 valuable non-verbal statements made by the Pope:

1. His car! It said it all! FIAT!!!! The Holy Father was preaching a message even by choosing the car in which he rode. Not only does the name "fiat" mean “YES!” (Or literally, “let it happen”) and reflect the beautiful “YES” of the Blessed Virgin, but the humble means he used to get around was perfectly reflective of his mission. When he arrived in America and stepped off of the plane to go to his transport the commentator was so surprised at his choice of wheels. The newscaster said something like, “That car must have some bells and whistles we aren’t aware of!” But, no-- it was just a standard, unarmored, tiny FIAT. By choosing this car he was humbly saying YES to what God would allow to come his way-- good or bad. He was open and accessible to all. It showed his willingness to be vulnerable and to trust in God and in the goodness of mankind.

How often do I say NO out of pride or fear?

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear.” 1 John 4:18

Lord, help me to be more like Francis.

2. His sweet and tender gestures to the very young, the under served, the elderly and the disabled. He was never in too big of a hurry to pause and allow, even for a brief moment, those who are the most fragile, frail or on the fringe to be included and embraced. Even when his body guards would initially stop someone, Pope Francis would signal to them to come forward so that he could bless or embrace them.

How often am I in such a hurry that I pass by those in most need of tenderness?

“Love is patient, love is kind.” 1 Corinthians 13:4

Lord, help me to be more like Francis.

3. His smile! He smiled-- a lot! He seemed to genuinely enjoy the people he was with, those he was here to serve. A light of love and joy came from him, even though he must have been exhausted. He never showed his weariness, only his warmth and his perfectly paced, peaceful walk. He exuded Jesus everywhere he went.

How often do I take the time to truly enjoy the people I am with? And show them that I do?

“... rejoicing in the LORD is your strength!” Nehemiah 8:10

Lord, help me to be more like Francis.

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the Holy Father’s visit to America. While he spoke many, many beautiful words, gave brilliant advice to families and law makers, and touched many souls through his well crafted homilies and speeches, the volumes he spoke without using words are what I will remember most, because people will remember how you made them feel more than what you say to them. Help me to preach a sermon of love with my every action. Thank You Father, for this holy man. Bless and protect him as he seeks to love and serve You by loving and serving others. I pray that you will give me the grace to WALK LIKE FRANCIS, who ultimately walks like You.

I ask this in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen