During Lent 2020, the Pope invites Christians to reflect deeply on Jesus’ death and resurrection, “the cornerstone of our personal and communal Christian life.” He urges believers to open their hearts to God’s love, which offers freedom and renewal. Accepting the Good News means rejecting the lie that “our life is ours to do with as we please.” Instead, life is a gift from God meant to be lived in abundance (cf. Jn 10:10).

Lent is a time to return to the Lord through prayer and mercy. “Keep your gaze fixed on the outstretched arms of Christ crucified,” the Pope writes, urging people to believe in God’s mercy and let his love purify them. This relationship with Jesus, present in those who suffer, calls for sincere dialogue and personal conversion.

Prayer is not just a duty, but “an expression of our need to respond to the love of God.” It softens hearts and leads to deeper commitment. “Let us not let this time of grace pass in vain,” he warns.

He reminds us that God’s desire for dialogue is real and ongoing. Conversion is a gift—not a guarantee—and should not be postponed. The Paschal Mystery invites us to act, not just speak.

Finally, Christians are called to share, not hoard. Almsgiving and structural change are essential. He emphasizes: “Charity makes us more human.” The Pope concludes by asking Mary to help open our hearts to God’s call, so we may become “salt of the earth and light of the world.”