Pope Benedict XVI: True riches are in heaven
The Holy Father explained to those gathered that Jesus teaches that it is very difficult for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God, but not impossible, in fact, the Pope said, God can win the heart of a person who possesses great wealth and can push them to work for solidarity and sharing with those in need.
Pope Benedict also underlined the fact that wealth does not bring true happiness. The man in the Gospel, continued the Holy Father is someone who has observed God’s commandments but like many people thinks that eternal life can somehow be bought.
Jesus, notes Pope Benedict, is underlining the fact that the riches of heaven far out way those of this world, which is why he asks the man in the parable to give his wealth to the poor.
The Pope concluded his address by saying that this story teaches us that the rich should not neglect their salvation. He also remarked on the number of Saints, such as St. Francis, St. Elizabeth of Hungary and St. Charles Borromeo who had given up their wealth to follow God.
Following the recitation of the Marian prayer the Holy Father, drew the attention of those present in St Peter’s Square, back to the Year of Faith. “During this Year of Faith may we, like the man in today’s Gospel, have the courage to ask the Lord what more can we do, especially for the poor, the lonely, the sick and the suffering, so as to be witnesses and heirs to the eternal life God promises.”
He also recalled those who had died for the Faith such as Federico Bachstein and thirteen Brothers of the Order of Friars Minor who were beatified this weekend. He said they were killed in 1611 because of their faith and this reminds us of those people who are willing to suffer for Christ.
