In a December 2014 speech to church bureaucrats, Pope Francis gave a lively commentary on 15 ‘spiritual diseases.’ Number 12 on the list is the ‘disease of the funeral face.’ This describes leaders who are ‘scowling and unfriendly and think that, in order to be serious, they must show a melancholic and strict face.’
I visit a variety of U.S. churches in my summer mission work, and sometimes I am astounded at the glum way a worship service starts. I want to say, “Put a smile on your face, Mr. Worship Leader. Time to get up from the dead, Ms. Pastor.”
I want to add: “You have the best news in the world to share – for God’s sake, cheer up.” Then I remember catching sight of my own self on video. It’s usually a disheartening experience. We’re all still practicing, leaning into becoming the beautiful, helpful, humorous servant-leaders Jesus redeemed us to be.
“Our real selves” was excerpted from the All Anew devotional coloring book produced by Women of the ELCA and Gather magazine.
Do you enjoy these free Daily Grace messages? If so, donate now to further the ministry.