Pope Francis took a moment on Sunday to encourage Christians to reflect on their Lenten journey as a time of healing and renewal of faith in Jesus Christ.

The message came as the 88-year-old pontiff continues his recovery from a recent hospital stay, following his discharge from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital just a week ago.

He remains in convalescence at his Casa Santa Marta residence.

The Parable of the Merciful Father

In his Sunday Angelus message, Pope Francis shared his thoughts on the parable of the merciful father and his two sons, as described in the Gospel of St. Luke.

He highlighted how the Pharisees were scandalized by Jesus’ actions, murmuring behind his back because He welcomed sinners.

“Jesus reveals the heart of God: He is always merciful towards all; He heals our wounds so that we can love each other as brothers,” the pope wrote in his message.

This reflection emphasized God’s endless mercy and compassion for everyone.

A Time for Healing During Lent

Pope Francis urged Christians to live out this Lenten season as a time of healing, especially during the Jubilee Year of Hope.

He personally expressed how he, too, is experiencing this time of healing in both his soul and his body.

The pope acknowledged the shared human experience of frailty and illness, reminding people that these struggles make us more united as brothers and sisters in Christ’s salvation.

Gratitude for Missionaries of Mercy

The pope’s message, which was released over the weekend during the special Jubilee of Missionaries of Mercy, also included a heartfelt thank-you to all those who reflect Christ’s image through their prayers and actions.

He praised those who work as “instruments of healing,” serving as vital witnesses of faith and mercy to the world.

As the world continues to face challenges, Pope Francis called for petitions for peace and healing, emphasizing the importance of mercy in a time of widespread need.