HEARKEN TO THE WORDS OF MY MOUTH
"O God, hear my prayer; hearken to the words of my mouth" (Ps 54:4). First, we need to listen, and then respond. This was Gregory the Great's way to holiness. For a man who could have had a prosperous, well-to-do life but preferred to be a simple monk, Gregory is a shining example of listening to God's invitations and responding wholeheartedly. St. Paul's Letter to the Colossians also sounds like it could have flowed from Gregory's pen, "God has now reconciled you" (Col 1:22). Paul continued, "... provided that you persevere in faith... not shifting from the hope of the Gospel... preached to every creature under heaven" (ibid 23).
This past week, the Church honored St. Gregory the Great, Pope, and Doctor of the Church. After a career in civil and political service Gregory became a monk in the Roman Monastery of St. Andrew. There he rigorously observed the Benedictine Rule, which he did throughout his life. At the time he was elected Pope he was a deacon. He tried to avoid it, but eventually acceded to the wish of the electors and was consecrated on September 3, 590.
As Pope, he continued his work on behalf of the poor of his community. He was involved in civil government and in the spiritual affairs of the Church. It was he who sent St. Augustine and his monks to evangelize England. To his credit goes the laying of the foundation of what was to become the Papal States. He was tireless and energetic in matters relating to the internal affairs of the Church, providing a model for his bishops. He also had great interest in the clergy of the Church in their formation. Gregory took a personal interest in changing and developing the liturgy. Wow, what one person can do!
Our world could use a few more like Pope Gregory, all the way to our current Pope, Francis, for they are the "servants of the servants of God." In politics and religion, in business and education, in media and entertainment, and whatever we find ourselves in, we are called to be like them - preferring nothing whatsoever to Christ Jesus and the Gospel, so that in all things God may be glorified.
"O God, hear my prayer; hearken to the words of my mouth" (Ps 54:4). First, we need to listen, and then respond. This was Gregory the Great's way to holiness.