(ONLY VIDEO) At the Wednesday general audience, Pope Leo XIV offered a catechesis on the spiritual meaning of “preparing” on the journey toward Easter, inspired by the Gospel of Mark.
SUMMARY OF THE POPE'S CATHEQUESIS
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Today, in our continuing catechesis on the Jubilee theme of “Christ our Hope,” we begin our reflection on Jesus’ passion by considering the importance of preparing for an encounter with God. In the passage we just read, the disciples were surprised to find that the upper room had already been made ready for them to celebrate the Passover. We are invited to discover here an image of our own hearts, chosen and set aside by the Lord as a place of encounter with him. First, however, we must respond to the Lord’s initiative by preparing our hearts through concrete acts of love, forgiveness and self-giving so that he may come and dwell within us.
By asking for our cooperation he reminds us that true love — like the Passion itself — is not the result of chance, but a conscious and free decision to give of oneself. Let us ask the Lord today to teach us how prepare for his presence and so be able to welcome him, and those around us, into our hearts.
I extend a warm welcome to the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in today’s Audience, especially those coming from South Africa, Vietnam, Canada and the United States of America. During summer, a time normally set aside for holidays and recreation, let us not neglect the Lord’s invitation to prepare our hearts by activiely participating in the Eucharistic sacrifice and by generous acts of charity.
God bless you!
BAM
