Pope Francis, a true soldier died in his place

Pope Francis, a true soldier died in his place

By Frank Tietie

I love him much better than in the days of the past,

I will serve him more than ever;

I will do while it gives me, whatever the cost is;

I will be a real soldier, I will die at my post.

– *Eli G. Christy *

_ You pay to serve Jesus_, 1894.

A Anglican born, later I joined the Pentecostal-Carrismatic movement (born again) during my university years. I moved away from hypocritical Christianity and now I am a student of the love and power of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am often amazed by the ability of the Catholic Church to produce leaders engaged in the sacrificial service for the good of the Lord.

From the greatest of them in my life, Pope John Paul, to many others, including Mother Teresa of Calcutta, the Catholics have truly shown that the servants of the Lord Jesus Christ should emulate him through a life of loving sacrifice dedicated to the well -being of their community of faith and the wider world.

Unlike his predecessor, Pope Benedict, who resigned because of bad health, a sign of good leadership when it is time to get aside, but the blessed Pope Francis has chosen to use his latest strength, even in the disease, to serve the Church. He continued to carry out his papal duties, even from a wheelchair. He proclaimed blessings on the church on Easter Sunday and died on Easter Monday. He persevered for his master until the end and died at his assignment, even if he could have resigned. He remained faithful until the end. What an extraordinary man!

In an era led by a mentality “What is inside for me”, in which many leaders and followers of faith are used to God only with the expectation that will keep the promises of wealth and health – as if faith was an insurance policy for a place in heaven: religion or faith is no longer a way of living but rather a means to finish. It becomes a question of convenience to serve God or not.

Religion has become a search for personal interest, but should also be seen for its transcendental purpose: redemption and preparation for life beyond our earthly existence.

There is nothing intrinsically wrong in pursuing personal interest; It is essential for human survival and progress. Personal interest is distinct from selfishness.

Align personal interest with universal principles involves a rewarding and rewarding life.

The Lord Jesus Christ teaches that the greatness lies in serving others. This is the path to an authentic influence, respect and power. How can true wealth be achieved? Overcoming selfishness and greed through the gift, thus opening unstoppated opportunities and collecting the rewards from the inexhaustible resources of the earth. Religious teachings can help restore these universal principles in all areas of life, including government and business, promoting self-implementation and promoting a better society. However, religion has launched because of the selfishness of its leaders.

In the days and weeks to come, the world will still remain a great man to cry. He had neither a wife nor property ownership; He lived only to serve others. Yet over a billion people all over the world will sweeten his disappearance. This is the real greatness!

May God continually bless the memory of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who lived and died as Pope Francis.

Frank Tietie is a Nigerian lawyer, Abuja’s Hewrites.