As I turn on the TV from time to time, I see people who have traveled from far off places, standing and watching to see if white smoke will soon emanate from that little chimney in the Vatican. I wonder what possesses them to make such a journey to see what I can see from the comfort of my own home.
Granted it is an historic moment in time. For younger people it will be the first time they can witness this method of election. For those who put leaders, movie stars, musicians, and popes on pedestals, coming close to what I might call obsession, it makes life exciting for them.
When a Pope has lived a life of a true servant of Christ, I am in admiration. I did not fall to pieces when he died. I rejoiced that he was finally at rest.
Early in the year of 1978, I had a chance to go to Europe with four close friends. We did visit Rome and the Vatican. We were in a large audience that listened to Paul VI preach a sermon on our call to follow Christ. It was inspirational. I thought that practice of carrying the Pope in on a throne-like chair was pretty unlike what Christ would have done. How about a donkey? (tongue-in-cheek J ) (Pope John Paul II did away with that practice as he did with many other archaic observances.) Great minds think alike!
Later that year, 1978, that Pope died. John Paul II replaced him. He lasted only one month. And then I witnessed the election of his successor. So this is somewhat of “old hat” for me. I don’t get too excited about a whole lot of things anymore. I just prayer that this election will not involve political issues but will be the product of those old cardinals who listen faithfully to the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus has sent as our Helper. We do need help.
Since I started this post late this morning, Benedict XVI has been elected. I am somewhat disappointed because he is known to be super conservative. But I will just wait and see, hoping for the best for the world and the church. We need great leaders.