What does the Holy See?

As I read articles about the new Pope, Francis, I saw the term “Holy See” in reference to him. Unfamiliar with the term, I found it means ‘government,’ as the See of Rome is the central government of the Roman Catholic Church, and he, the Pope, the ruler of that government. Immediately I thought of Isaiah’s words “and the government shall rest on His shoulders”—Jesus’ shoulders, not the Pope’s—(Is. 9:6).

But beyond the formal, legitimate meaning of the term “Holy See”, I couldn’t help but see the play on words—thus, the title of my post “What does the Holy See?” And I don’t mean Pope Francis. I mean ‘you and me’—followers of Jesus. Well, I hope we see God. And, I hope we see what God sees. And, I hope we can see what God is doing. But, one thing I am absolutely certain of: you and I can see as much as, if not more than, a Pope!

This truth is so important to us, especially in these troubled times, when it is so hard to see anything good coming out of wordwide political, social, and moral chaos.  But of course chaos and confusion can also be very personal!  During my time of trouble, the Holy Spirit reminds me of Jesus' promise: “Blessed are the pure in heart [the holy ones] for they shall see God” (Matt. 5:8).  “What does the holy see?” He sees the unseen. “Didn't I tell you that if you had faith, you would see the glory of God?” (John 11:40).