Addressing pilgrims gathered in Saint Peter’s Square for the Sunday Angelus, Pope Leo reflected on the Gospel passage from Luke, urging Catholics to consider how they are investing what he called the “treasure” of their lives, according to Vatican News.
Quoting Jesus’ words, “Sell what you own and give alms,” the Holy Father encouraged the faithful “not to cling to the gifts they have received from God, but to use them generously for the good of others – especially those most in need,” according to Vatican reports of the Angelus address.
Pope Leo explained that this call is not limited to financial generosity. “It is not only about sharing material possessions,” he said, “but about putting into play our abilities, our time, our affection, our presence, our empathy.” He reminded listeners that each person is “a unique, priceless good in God’s plan – a living, beating capital” that must be cultivated and invested, “otherwise it dries up and loses its value.”
The Pope also issued a warning that such a treasure can be wasted or even stolen. “Those who, like a thief, turn it into an object of consumption” can strip it of its God-given purpose, he cautioned. For this reason, he stressed that the gift of who we are needs “space, freedom, and relationship to flourish – and above all, it needs love, which transforms and ennobles every aspect of our existence, making us ever more like God.”
Recalling that Jesus spoke these words while on His way to Jerusalem to offer Himself completely on the cross, Pope Leo described the works of mercy as “the safest and most fruitful bank” for investing the treasure of our lives. Even the smallest act, he noted, can have immeasurable value, pointing to the Gospel account of the poor widow who, with two small coins, becomes “the richest person in the world.”
Citing Saint Augustine, the Pope reflected on the eternal impact of love. While people may be glad to exchange bronze for silver or silver for gold, “what is given” in love yields “something infinitely greater: eternal life,” Augustine taught. “It will be changed,” he said, “because the giver will be changed.”
Pope Leo encouraged Catholics to recognize this truth in daily life — “in the mother who holds her children close, or in two people in love who feel like ‘a king and queen’ when they are together.” Such moments, he said, are opportunities not to be missed.
“Wherever we find ourselves – at home, in our parish, at school, or in the workplace – let us not miss any opportunity to love,” the Pope urged. “This is the vigilance Jesus asks of us: being attentive, ready, and sensitive to one another, as He is with us at every moment.”
The Holy Father concluded by entrusting this mission to Mary, “the Morning Star,” asking her to help all believers be “sentinels of mercy and peace” in a world often divided and in need of God’s light.
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