Holy Father Pope Francis at the Sunday Angelus address told pilgrims and tourists that envy and jealousy for someone else’s goodness and good works can lead to false accusations. Reflecting on the day’s Gospel, the Holy Father explored two types of misunderstanding that Jesus had to face, which came from the learned scribes and from his own family members.
As reported by Vatican news, Holy Father Pope Francis remarked that “The only unforgivable sin – blasphemy against the Holy Spirit –starts from a heart closed to the mercy of God, who acts in Jesus.” The Pontiff called it a “deadly poison” and a “premeditated malice” that seeks to destroy the good reputation of another person. “May God keep us from this terrible temptation!” Further, His Holiness added, “Jesus formed a new family based on faith in Him and on His love that welcomes us and unites us to one another in the Holy Spirit. All those who accept Jesus’ word are children of God and brothers and sisters to one another,”
His Holiness Pope Francis concluded his remarks by reminding that “Jesus’ response does not betray a lack of respect for his mother and family. Indeed, it is the greatest recognition for Mary, because she herself is the perfect disciple who obeyed God’s will in everything.”
