We can see the ways in which the Bible has guided Francis’ pontificate—and why Pope Francis’ use of the Bible has created not just joy for many, but fear and even confusion for others.

“He has rescued us from the power of darkness” (Col 1:13)

“For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us” (2 Thes 3:7)

St. Augustine defined martyrdom in this way: “It is the reason why, not the suffering that constitutes the martyr.”

“For the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost” (Lk 19:10)

The introductory line to Jesus rsquo parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector is as important to understand as is the parable itself The Gospel of Luke the only Gospel in which this parable is found sets the scene Following the parable of the unjust judge and the widow Jesus ldquo also t

To draw sustenance, we must continue to go to the sources that refresh us: friends, prayer, the sacraments, the Mass and Scripture, all of which equip us for the spiritual battle, and to recognize that God is always with us too, truly fighting at our side.

Only the Samaritan turned back to praise God and (literally translated) “fell before his feet” and thanked Jesus.

“We have done only what we ought to have done” (Lk 17:10)

If we truly believe that God is on watch for the poor, the widow and the orphan, then now is the time to align ourselves with God’s reign, with Lazarus.