What does being poor mean? Pope Francis's message of poverty.

Since his election Pope Francis has been talking a lot about poverty and how the Church should align itself more with the poor in helping them and becoming more Evangelical.  From a given point of view, seeing the austerity lived by his assumed named of St. Francis of Assisi, it is easy to see what the Pope means when we contrast the “richness” of the hierarchical Church with much of the world which suffers from destitution both in a material and spiritual dimension and calls upon a reform of heart; a recourse to mercy and tenderness to all peoples.

“The poor” is stressed continuously by him in just about every message given to the faithful and peoples of the world.  But what does being poor mean?  Certainly, as we know, economically speaking, there are people who live below the line of poverty who for one reason or another remain below that line, because they receive amenities or government subsidies which are designed, for the most part, to endow the individual the capacity to move up and over the poverty line. Thus, to some people being poor is economically beneficial. 

There are those who would rather not consider themselves poor, even though they just cannot make ends meet, they will fight tooth and nail to get out of their present condition with an attitude that positively looks toward the future, thus for these people being labeled as “poor” may be derogatory and  perhaps even discriminating. 

Then there is the destitute, who for a variety of reasons is victim to a number of social-political, health or ideological conditions.  This is the person who you may unfortunately find “living under a bridge” and who may very well be receptive to help.  St. Francis, in the mainstream ideal of what it means helping the poor, is best known for this type of ministry so emblematic of his life.  After all, Jesus said: “Whatever you do to the least of my brothers you do unto me.” This type of poverty (destitution), wide spread throughout the world, seems to remain a constant denominator throughout the ages: “The poor you will always have” says Jesus.

Pope Francis and his message of poverty indirectly brings to the forefront the question of the rich and powerful.  What about them?  Some, through no fault of theirs, have inherited wealth and or a high position in their community - and should these persons feel the weight of guilt or become victims of harassment?  After all, Jesus himself was not destitute, he dressed and ate well, and had several benefactors.   Rich and powerful should not be synonymous with darkness and evil, but it can be related to humbleness and poverty, as well. 

Which brings me to another aspect of poverty, its spiritual side.  Before the richness and the all-powerful God we are all poor.  Each one of us does not possess everything; we are in need. 

The question, "what does being poor mean?" is not an easy one to answer, but rather complex.  The message of poverty advocated by Pope Francis recalls the whole world, at least, that being poor means that we need each other, one way or another, and that this "need" be met with tenderness and mercy. --- jlf