Wisdom, love and communication

Dialogue: a conversation between two or more people (noun); take part in a conversation or discussion to resolve a problem (verb)

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Pope Francis addressed the U.S. Congress on Thursday, the first such papal presentation in the history of our nation.

His hour-long speech was comprised of 3,300 words. In his opening, 117 words crystallized the immediate object of his far-reaching message. He said:

“Your own responsibility as members of Congress is to enable this country, by your legislative activity, to grow as a nation. You are the face of its people, their representatives. You are called to defend and preserve the dignity of your fellow citizens in the tireless and demanding pursuit of the common good, for this is the chief aim of all politics. A political society endures when it seeks, as a vocation, to satisfy common needs by stimulating the growth of all its members, especially those in situations of greater vulnerability or risk. Legislative activity is always based on care for the people. To this you have been invited, called and convened by those who elected you.”

Dignity. Common good. Common needs. Growth of all. Care for the people. Twelve words that every member of Congress should adopt as disciples of their job description.

If he’d stopped there, a powerful beacon would have been lit. But Francis wrapped his spiritual arms around every man, woman and child in the remaining 3,183 words, each syllable imparted not just with wisdom, but with love.

The Argentine son of Italian parents has been whittling down barriers to understanding and cooperation perhaps less through his wisdom and more through his humility. Who could stand unmoved as the most recognized spiritual leader in the world asks you — yes, you — to pray for him? And if you’re a nonbeliever, to send him your good wishes? No matter what you believe and don’t believe, who could not see a diminutive figure cast such a giant shadow?

In his speech to Congress, Francis used the word “God” nine times. He used the word “dialogue” 12 times.

Talk about a divine message.