Pope Francis: “God does not nail us to our sin”
Papa Francesco during the Angelus he underlined that no one is perfect and that we are all sinners. He reminded us that the Lord does not condemn us for our weaknesses, but he always offers us the possibility of saving ourselves. He invited us to reflect on the fact that we are often ready to condemn others and spread gossip, rather than trying to understand and forgive.
The fourth Sunday of Lent, called "in laetare“, invites us to look to the joy of the imminent Easter. The Pope, in his speech today, reminds us that no one is perfect, we all make mistakes and commit sins, but the Lord does not judge or condemn us. On the contrary, there hugs and frees us from our sins, offering us his mercy and forgiveness.
In today's Gospel, Jesus speaks with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and reveals to him the nature of his mission of salvation. Bergoglio underlines Christ's ability to read in hearts and in people's minds, revealing their intentions and contradictions. This profound gaze might be disturbing, but the Pope reminds us that the Lord desires that no one gets lost and guides us to conversion and healing with his grace.
Pope Francis invites the faithful to follow God's example
The Pontiff invites all Christians to imitate Jesus, to have a look of mercy on others and to avoid judging or condemning. Too often we tend to criticize others and speak badly of them, but we must learn to look at others with love and compassion, as the Lord does with each of us.
Francis also expresses his closeness to Muslim brothers who begin Ramadan and to the population of Haiti, hit by a serious crisis. Invite us to pray for peace and reconciliation in that country, so that acts of violence stop and we can work together for a better future. Finally, the Pope dedicates a special thought to women, on the occasion of International Women's Day. Highlights the importance of recognizing and promoting dignity of women, guaranteeing them the necessary conditions to welcome the gift of life and ensure their children have a dignified existence.