During his weekly general audience, Pope Francis emphasizes the universal character of the Christian proclamation, emphasizing that meeting Jesus and sharing the Gospel is a call for all, regardless of borders or limitations.
By Francesca Merlo
Open your catechism During his General Audience on November 22, the Holy Father recalled the theme of last week, during which he reflected, with the faithful, on the fact that the Christian proclamation is “joy”.
The second aspect of Christian proclamation, and on which he focuses today, the Pope emphasized, is that it “is addressed to all”.
The “humanizing power” of the Gospel
“When we truly encounter the Lord Jesus, the wonder of this encounter permeates our life and demands to be taken beyond ourselves,” the Pope said. He added that Jesus’ desire is for everyone, because his Gospel contains “a humanizing power and a fulfillment of life that is intended for every man and woman.”
Pope Francis underlined this point by recalling a passage from his Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii gaudium, in which he writes that everyone has “the right to receive the Gospel. Christians have the duty to proclaim the Gospel without excluding anyone. »
The “universal destination” of the Gospel
“Brothers and sisters,” continued the Pope, “let us feel that we are at the service of universal destination of the Gospel; and let us distinguish ourselves by our ability to step outside of ourselves, to surpass all limits.”
Jesus and the Canaanite
He emphasized that Jesus’ journey is an eternal lesson for everyone. The Pope then recalled a passage from Matthew, in which a Canaanite woman asks Jesus to heal her daughter. Initially hesitant, Jesus says that his mission is aimed at the Israelites and not at foreigners. The woman persists, showing great faith in asserting that even dogs have crumbs. Impressed, Jesus grants his request, recognizing his unwavering belief.
“This meeting has something unique,” the Pope underlined. “Not only does someone change Jesus’ mind – and a woman, a foreigner and a pagan – but the Lord himself finds confirmation that his preaching should not be limited to the people to whom he belongs, but open to all “, did he declare. explain.
A “pact” with God
The Holy Father then concludes his speech by emphasizing that each person called by the Lord is chosen to be able to reach others. This is the “pact” that was concluded. “All the Lord’s friends have experienced the beauty, but also the responsibility and burden of being ‘chosen’ by Him,” the Pope added.
Being called by God does not mean rising, the Pope concluded, but rather becoming free and courageous instruments of inclusive love.
