Holy Father Pope Francis while addressing the faithful gathered at St. Peter’s Square for his General Audience meet, continued his catechesis on Christian hope and highlighted never top despair, as the Lord’s grace is always present to those who put their trust in him. His Holiness also emphasized on the significant role of hope in a Christian’s life and the fulfillment of hope in heaven.
As reported by Vatican radio, Holy Father Pope Francis remarked that “On Calvary, Jesus assures the good thief that he will be with him that very day in heaven, the Lord’s solidarity with us sinners culminates on the cross; there, as one of his final acts, he opens the gates of heaven to a repentant criminal.” Further, His Holiness added, “The good thief’s humble plea for mercy was sufficient to touch the heart of Jesus and His humility reminds us that, like the publican in the Temple, or the prodigal son, we can only trust in God’s mercy, and, at every hour of our lives, turn to him with hope in his promises.”
His Holiness concluded his message by exhorting the faithful that no one should despair, for the Lord’s grace is always present to those who put their trust in Him.
