It's comforting knowing God is here. Perhaps somewhat disquieting; challenging, certainly (but that's my issue). It's comforting none the less. Not sure what I mean? Let's briefly look at two men.
Malachi Martin was a catholic priest, a Jesuit. Through much hard work and dedication he got to prominence within the church holding an office in The Vatican. While I am not sure exactly what straw it was that broke his back, he left the church disgusted at some of the goings on within it. His approach from then seemed to be one of amendment of the church, perhaps in the hope of cleaning it up from the outside. He wrote a number of books questioning many aspects within the church. And being a former priest of the church he undermines seemed to give some authority to his teachings which were not in line with the Catholic Church.
He was, however, somewhat right; there is plenty that needs cleaning in the church (I need not go into all details). Most recently, here in Australia there was a priest, Fr Kevin Lee, who has openly confessed to a secret marriage: news which hit the main stream media. While that is scandalous enough he claimed that most priests lead a double life and that priestly celibacy should be reconsidered. A clear allusion with undertones of a greater scandal.
Now this is not the time for a debate nor for an apologetical lesson (though much could be said, of course). What I would like to point out is that both Kevin and Malachi identified problems, which was great, but in seeking to address them left the church then proceeded to point the finger and, perhaps, grind an axe or two. I question the effectiveness of this tactic, given that history is littered with notables who have done much the same with little effect. It seems to me that to make real change in the church, one must remain, well, in the church.
At the conclusion of Matthew's Gospel, Jesus promises to be with his church until the end of the world (Mat 28:20). Luke tells us how this is done - through the Holy Spirit: a Spirit of power (Acts 1:8). In the wake of the Ascension its easy to imagine the disciples either wondering around aimlessly or just waiting around for the promise to be fulfilled. While I don't think it was quite like this (they did have the issue of replacing Judas after all) there was a notable change in the apostles from before Pentecost to after; epitomized in Peter's speech in Acts 2. The difference is the Spirit of Power.
While Fr Kevin and Malachi might have intended well in trying to implement change in the church (if that was their intent) ultimately all change will come with the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Power found at home in the Church. Let him do the cleaning of his home in his time. God is in charge. God is here, guiding and guarding his body, the church. It's comforting to know God is here.
About Jamie Floyd
Jamie Floyd is a leader of the Men of St. Joseph in Melbourne, Australia
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