Slight variations of the definition of the word, humble, can be uncovered from all directions. Today, I would like to point out how dictionary.com defines the word.

humble:
1. not proud or arrogant; modest
2. having a feeling of insignificance, inferiority, subservience, etc.
3. low in rank, importance, status, quality, etc.; lowly
4. courteously respectful
5. low in height, level, etc.; small in size

All five definitions of the word describe a well-respected man that serves our one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. A man that serves our one God and therefore, the entire body of Christ. In light of today’s events – that of Pope Benedict XVI renouncing his position as Pope, I thought it only appropriate to talk about the great humility it takes for a man to arrive at the following:

“After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry.

I am well aware that this ministry, due to its essential spiritual nature, must be carried out not only with words and deeds, but no less with prayer and suffering. However, in today’s world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by questions of deep relevance for the life of faith, in order to govern the barque of Saint Peter and proclaim the Gospel, both strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which in the last few months, has deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately fulfill the ministry entrusted to me.”
~Pope Benedict XVI~

Many have been critical, saying this is a sign of weakness for the Pope to resign. In a world where so many seek power and control, the Pope has done quite the contrary. He has recognized that his health and age have left him unable to adequately carry out the great responsibility of guiding the Church. The Pope has recognized that the Church is much more than one man – he is simply serving as it’s grand caretaker. In fact, the Papal Office is not how many would believe it to be. The Pope is not a monarch, he is not a dictator, and his position as Pope is not sought after through debate and voting in the manner that our United States President is elected. Furthermore, the position of Pope is not about the Pope himself, rather it is about the people of God. The Pope is a guardian. He is a guardian and interpreter of the teachings of Jesus Christ and moral law. The Pope does not decide what the Church teaches – Jesus taught us what the Church was all about from the very time he walked this earth and then established the Catholic Church [Matthew 16:18] to carry out His message. That very same Church that Jesus Christ established, He then entrusted to St. Peter, who became the very first Pope. The Pope guides the Church according to Jesus’ teachings.

Let me return to where I began this post; the word, humble. Pope Benedict has recognized that the role of the Pope is much bigger than any one man. It’s not about raising oneself up and seeking control or authority. It is a duty to justly and adequately pass on what Jesus first taught us through prayer, service and constant communication with God. For Pope Benedict XVI to recognize through earnest prayer and examination of conscience, and furthermore concede (based on what he has discerned to be God’s guidance) that he no longer feels fit to serve the Body of Christ (ALL people regardless of their religious beliefs) in the capacity necessary for the Pope to serve us all, is a great sign of respect for our Lord and for each one of us.

Pope Benedict XVI, your humility is greatly admired and your faithful service and guidance is appreciated.