It has been said that the Holy Word of God “opens the horizon” of our lives, broadens our perspective, and saves us from any temptation that would “close us in.” Jesus, the Word made Flesh, is great because He not only draws us out of such temptation, but gives us more confidence, so that we might follow Him more faithfully.
Pope Francis has consistently emphasized how important it is to become familiar with the Bible, read it often, meditate on it, and assimilate it. As he has said, “What would happen if we treated the Bible like we treat our cell phones? What would happen if we always carried the Holy Word of God with us – or at least the small pocket-sized Gospel – what would happen?”
The Holy Father’s questions are both sobering and challenging. In effect, if we had the Word of God always in our hearts, no temptation could turn us away from God and no obstacle could deflect us from the path of goodness. Wouldn’t we be better able to live a Resurrected life in the Spirit, accepting and loving our brothers and sisters, especially the most vulnerable and needy, and even our enemies? Sobering and challenging indeed!
