Hey there,
I wanted to tell you about an experience I had today. I was watching tv after lunch and there was a special news break stating that a new Pope had been elected. I thought I would watch this because I have never watched what happens when they elect a Pope. So, I watched. I listened as the commentator broke down and cried in the background as they announced who the new Pope would be. I also watched the crowd’s anticipation and emotions. One commentator said, as he looked out over the crowd, that there were many groups from many nations holding the flags of their country for this “universal religion”. Then, the Pope came out and addressed everyone. He “appeared” very humble and asked prayer for himself from the people. When he asked them to pray, the whole crowd (hundreds of thousands or more) became very quiet and prayed. I heard statements like “If he governs as well as he spoke today, we are in for a treat”; “He is simple. He cooks for himself, and walks among the poor. He doesn’t live in luxury as he could. He is just like Jesus”; “This is a call to bring people back to the church and clear our past scandals”, etc.
As I watched the events of the day, it was so pitiful. I heard one interview with a little girl about 7 or so, who had the biggest smile on her face when they asked her who the Pope was. Her answer, “It’s the holy Spirit in person.” Then, I watched as they prepared for the Pope to come out with fabrics, curtains, lights, guards, and then robed him with fancy garments, and all the people (thousands) hanging on to every word and cheering and crying. I just couldn’t watch anymore. I got up and walked into the kitchen. I said, “I’m sorry Jesus.” When I said that, the Spirit fell on me and went all through my body! Questions started flowing out of my mouth, the first one being, “Who is the King of glory?” Then others: “Who has authority and power and dominion?” “Who is the Lord?” and, “Who is going to rule a thousand years?” and there were others. Every answer – JESUS! I threw my hands up and began praising the Son. It felt so good. Then, I went and did laundry. That was great! And so very very simple.
I have prayed today for the people I saw worshipping this man, and I have prayed for us too, that we can stand the spiritual battles ahead. This is God’s plan. And no matter what is to come, with the feelings that Jesus gives, we will be victorious in the end! And, we can “shake the dust off our feet” and move forward.