The Press Office of the Holy See has released the catechesis prepared by Pope Francis for the General Audience on Wednesday, April 2. Unfortunately, the Audience had to be canceled due to the Pope’s convalescence. In this message, written from the Casa Santa Marta, the Holy Father reflects on the biblical episode of Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus and encourages the faithful to never lose hope, even when they feel incapable of changing.

A Message of Hope in the Midst of Difficulty

Despite his health condition, Pope Francis wished to share his weekly catechesis, emphasizing the importance of divine mercy and personal transformation. Drawing from the Gospel of St. Luke (19:1-10), the Holy Father recalled how Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector and a wealthy man, was despised by his contemporaries, but his desire to see Jesus led him to climb a tree—an act of humility that allowed him to have a decisive encounter with the Lord.

Jesus Sees the Heart, Not the Appearances

In his reflection, the Pope highlights how Jesus’ gaze transforms Zacchaeus’ life. “Christ does not stop at appearances or the prejudices of people but sees the heart of each individual,” Pope Francis notes. This gospel passage reminds us that no one is excluded from God’s love and that it is always possible to change and start anew.

Conversion Comes from the Love of God

The Pope’s message emphasizes that conversion is not the result of fear or imposition, but of love. Zacchaeus, moved by Jesus’ mercy, spontaneously decides to return what he has stolen and to help the poor. “When we feel loved by God, our hearts change and open up to others,” the Pontiff writes.

An Invitation to Trust and Hope

Pope Francis concludes his catechesis by urging the faithful to not be discouraged by their own weaknesses and sins. “God always gives us a new opportunity. It is never too late to open our hearts and be transformed by His grace,” he affirms.