In his April 9 catechesis, Pope Francis addressed the essential need for Christians to overcome the “logic of merit” in order to fully embrace God’s boundless love. As part of his ongoing series, Jesus Christ Our Hope, the pope reflected on a powerful moment in Chapter 10 of St. Mark’s Gospel when Jesus encounters a rich young man. Despite the young man’s outward appearance as a committed follower of the commandments, he is still searching for the deeper meaning of his life. Pope Francis used this encounter to emphasize the difference between living according to a “merit-based” approach and finding fulfillment in God’s unconditional love.
The rich young man, according to Pope Francis, had “observed the commandments ever since his youth but… has not yet found the meaning of his life.” Despite his adherence to the commandments, he lacked the freedom and peace that comes from an authentic relationship with God. Pope Francis observed that “perhaps he is one who has not yet truly made up his mind, despite his appearance as a committed person.” This statement speaks directly to the reality that following the rules alone does not guarantee a fulfilled, joyous life.
The pope further explained that “eternal life” is not something that can be obtained “by right” or “through meticulous observance of commitments.” Instead, it is rooted in a loving relationship with God and others, which is the key to both a happy life on earth and an eternal life in heaven. “Indeed, beyond the things we do, our sacrifices and successes, what truly counts in order to be happy is what we carry in our heart,” Pope Francis said, urging the faithful to focus on the internal disposition of the heart rather than external accomplishments.
Pope Francis continued to challenge the idea of merit-based living, encouraging us to view God’s love not as a reward for good works but as a free gift. “Jesus’ love is gratuitous: exactly the opposite of the logic of merit that has beset this person,” he remarked. In doing so, he highlighted the profound joy that comes when we realize we are loved “freely, by grace.” This message is a reminder that God’s love is not something to be earned; it is freely offered to all who are open to receiving it.
Moreover, the pope pointed out that this principle applies to human relationships as well. “As long as we try to buy love or beg for affection, those relationships will never make us feel happy,” he added. True joy in relationships is found not in transactions, but in the free gift of love shared between individuals. This message invites Catholics to rethink their approach to both their relationship with God and others, fostering an environment where love is freely given and received.
In our modern, individualistic culture, Pope Francis noted, many people struggle with feelings of loneliness and disconnection. “Perhaps today, precisely because we live in a culture of self-sufficiency and individualism, we find ourselves more unhappy because we no longer hear our name spoken by someone who loves us freely,” he said. This lack of genuine connection, he suggests, contributes to an overwhelming sense of sadness and isolation in society.
In reflecting on the young man’s refusal to follow Jesus, Pope Francis observed the sadness that arises from not accepting God’s invitation. “What we think are riches could be only burdens that are holding us back,” the pope warned, urging the faithful to let go of attachments to material wealth and pride that prevent them from embracing the free and healing love of God. He also encouraged us to examine our own hearts, to seek healing from our wounds, and to open ourselves to the freedom that comes from following Christ.
The pope concluded his reflection with a heartfelt prayer, entrusting “all people who are sad and undecided” to the Heart of Jesus. He prayed that they may feel the “loving gaze of the Lord,” finding in Him the comfort and healing that only His love can provide.
In this catechesis, Pope Francis reminds us of the importance of living not by the “logic of merit,” but by the logic of love—freely given, not earned. Only in this way can we find true happiness, peace, and fulfillment, both in this life and in the life to come.
