Yesterday, speaking to pilgrims from his Summer residence at Castel Gandolfo, Pope Benedict explains God’s relationship with us in this way (reported via CNA):
“God does not force us to believe in him, but draws us to himself through the truth and goodness of his incarnate Son. Love, in fact, always respects freedom…”
The Pope based his conclusion upon the story told by Jesus in today’s Gospel reading: the parable of the sower who plants seed with different degrees of success.
He said that for Jesus the parable was “autobiographical” because “it reflects the experience of Jesus himself and of his preaching” as “different effects are achieved depending on the kind of reception given to the proclamation.”
Let us remember today, on the Memorial of Saint Benedict, to pray for our Pope, Benedict XVI, that he may continue to lead the Universal Church with wisdom and grace.
St Benedict, pray for us.
Thank you very much. Thankfully,I can understand love. I believe in God.