The Bible reveals the profound mystery of Christ taking upon Himself the burden of human sin for our salvation (cf. 2 Cor 5:21). The Father placed upon His Son the complete weight of our wrongdoing, a mystery Pope Benedict XVI once expressed by saying that God appears to “turn against Himself” (Deus Caritas Est, 12). Through this astonishing act of self-giving, divine love shows the fullness of its power, reaching even those who stand opposed to God (cf. Mt 5:43–48). This lies at the center of the paschal mystery: a love that does not remain remote or merely theoretical, but willingly enters into the reality of humanity’s brokenness.
God’s saving conversation is very different from the empty curiosity of the Athenians, “who spent their time in nothing except telling or hearing something new” (Acts 17:21). In our own time, we can likewise become absorbed in noise, novelty, and endless distraction. When media and communication are misused, they can overwhelm the quiet voice calling us toward inner conversion. The Gospel, however, calls us to move beyond passing conversations and superficial exchanges toward a profound encounter capable of transforming our lives.
Sharing in the paschal mystery requires us to recognize Christ’s suffering in the wounds present throughout our world. The pain of the innocent, the forgotten, and the marginalized becomes a living reflection of His Passion. The violence we commit, the selfishness we encourage, and the damage we inflict upon creation reveal how easily the human heart can become separated from God.
For this reason, genuine conversion leads us toward greater generosity. Almsgiving is not simply a duty to fulfill; it is an act that changes both the person who gives and the person who receives. It enlarges the heart and contributes to the restoration of justice wherever it has been neglected.
This Lent, from March 26 to 28, young economists and innovators will meet in Assisi to envision and advance an economy founded upon justice, inclusion, and concern for the most vulnerable. Their efforts express the continuing call to shape economic life according to the dignity of every human person. May Mary Most Holy remain with us during this season of renewal. As our hearts are cleansed and renewed, may we become instruments of reconciliation and faithfully embody the mission Christ gives to His disciples: to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world (cf. Mt 5:13–14).
