A humble heart, like that of Mary, is what is required to obtain salvation. Pope Francis emphasized this during his homily at Casa Santa Marta today, the Solemnity of the Annunciation.
Through her obedience, Mary loosened the knot of disobedience, caused by the pride of Adam and Eve that led them to disobey God. The Holy Father said that while sin entered among mankind, through “another man comes salvation.”
“This very long road will help all of us to have a more human heart, closer to God, not so proud, not so self-sufficient,” he said. «This road of recovery occurs in stages, a road of obedience and humility that leads to salvation.»
“Salvation cannot be bought or sold: it’s a gift,” he said.
“It’s given to us, it’s free. We can’t be saved through ourselves: Salvation is a totally free gift. It’s not bought through the blood of bulls or goats. It can’t be bought. But in order to receive this salvation, we need a humble heart, a meek heart, an obedient heart. Like that of Mary. And the model for this road towards salvation is the same God, his Son, who didn’t consider being equal to God an advantage which cannot be abandoned. Paul said this.”
Inviting the faithful to follow this road of humility, the Pope said that through the blood of his son, who “became like one of us”, we are saved.
Concluding his homily, Pope Francis called on the faithful to look at the history of Adam, Eve, Mary and Jesus, a road distinguished by the presence of God “who walks alongside his people.”
“Let’s say: ‘Thank you. Thank you Lord because today you told us that you have given us salvation.’ Today is a day to give thanks to the Lord,” the Pope said. (J.A.E.)
