Dear brothers and sisters,
As we anticipate the Ordinary Jubilee of 2025 and embrace a year dedicated to prayer, the wisdom found in the Book of Sirach reminds us that the prayer of the poor rises up to God. This truth resonates deeply as we prepare for the Eighth World Day of the Poor on 17 November.
In this often overlooked book, the author Ben Sira delves into the intricate relationship between humanity and God. His teachings, rooted in tradition, touch on faith, freedom, evil, and divine justice. Through his words, we are called to reflect on the crucial role of prayer in our lives and the special place the poor hold in God’s heart.
Ben Sira’s personal experience informs his writings on prayer, emphasizing the importance of seeking wisdom from a young age. He recognizes that the prayer of the humble has a unique power to pierce the clouds and reach the Lord, prompting Him to render justice to the righteous.
The author’s insights remind us that all of us, in our own way, are poor and in need of God’s grace. Whether rich or marginalized, we are all beggars at the feet of our Creator. The world’s pursuits of wealth and power pale in comparison to the true happiness found in humility and trust in God.
Amidst the chaos of wars and misguided policies, the call to serve and uplift the poor becomes even more urgent. Each individual and community is challenged to be instruments of God’s love, offering support and solidarity to those in need.
This year dedicated to prayer invites us to make the prayer of the poor our own, fostering a deep connection with those who struggle daily. Through humble hearts and acts of charity, we can truly live out our faith and bring light to those in darkness.
As we approach the World Day of the Poor, let us heed the prayerful cries of those in need and respond with compassion and action. True prayer is accompanied by genuine charity, translating into tangible support and solidarity for the marginalized.
Let us draw inspiration from the lives of saints like Mother Teresa of Calcutta and Saint Benedict Joseph Labre, who exemplified a life of prayer and service to the poor. Their legacies remind us of the transformative power of prayer in cultivating a heart of humility and love.
As we strive towards a better future and become pilgrims of hope, may we never forget the little acts of love that can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Through prayer and action, we can contribute to building a more peaceful and compassionate world for all.
On this journey, let us be friends of the poor, following the footsteps of Jesus and embracing the message of Mary, the Virgin of the poor. With faith and humility, we entrust our prayers to her, confident that they will be heard by our loving God.
Rome, Saint John Lateran, 13 June 2024, Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, Patron of the Poor
FRANCIS
