During a morning Mass on February 22, 2024, at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Rome, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful message emphasizing the contrast between the temptations of Satan and the true freedom offered by God. Reflecting on the biblical story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, the pope posed a fundamental question to the faithful: “Can I live my life to the fullest by saying ‘yes’ to God? Or, to be free and happy, must I free myself from Him?”
In his homily, Pope Leo highlighted that Jesus, the incarnate Son of God, represents “the new man, the free man,” illustrating how true freedom is achieved through love and commitment to God. He called upon believers to resist the “snares” of the devil, advocating for a lifestyle that prioritizes spiritual growth and genuine relationships.
The pope urged the congregation to create moments of silence in their daily lives by turning off electronic devices. He emphasized the importance of dedicating time to those in need, particularly the elderly, the poor, and the sick. “By giving up what is superfluous, we can share what we save with those in need,” he stated before leading the Angelus prayer with those gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
Pope Leo’s visit to a Salesian-run basilica in central Rome coincided with his ongoing pastoral outreach within the Diocese of Rome, which will include five visits leading up to Easter on April 5. At this particular basilica, Father Javier Ortiz Rodríguez noted the heavy flow of over 450,000 commuters daily, describing the situation as “like a full river in a storm.” He expressed gratitude for the pope’s presence, stating, “Your visit is like a healing ointment” for the community facing challenges such as violence, exploitation, and homelessness.
In his remarks, the pope referred to the Lenten season as an opportunity to rediscover the grace of Baptism, which he described as a chance to encounter God’s love rather than a mere prohibition. He articulated that true freedom involves recognizing “the otherness of the Creator,” which stands in contrast to the devil’s illusion of power.
Pope Leo underscored the transformative nature of Baptism, stating that it initiates individuals into a dynamic relationship with God. “This grace-filled relationship enables us to live in authentic closeness with others,” he explained, emphasizing that true freedom is characterized by love rather than the pursuit of power.
In acknowledging the needs of the local community, the pope commended the work of the Salesians and other church organizations dedicated to helping young people and those in need. He encouraged the parish to remain a beacon of hope, referring to it as “the leaven of the Gospel” and a testament to “closeness and charity.”
Before concluding his address, Pope Leo reflected on the day’s Gospel, which recounts Jesus’ experience in the desert, where he fasted and resisted temptation. He posited that through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, individuals could renew their commitment to creating lives rich in meaning and purpose.
“This is a demanding journey,” he acknowledged, particularly when faced with the allure of easier paths such as wealth and fame. He cautioned that these temptations ultimately lead to dissatisfaction, urging the faithful to embrace penance as a means to enrich and strengthen their humanity.
The pope’s message resonated deeply, as he called for a collective commitment to live authentically and foster a spirit of fraternity among all, urging the faithful to embody the freedom and love that defines the children of God.
