Pope Francis, during the Angelus in St. Peter's Square, called for reflection on how we look at the poor. He highlighted the importance of having the gaze and care of Jesus, who listened to the plea of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar who was healed. The Pope invited everyone to put themselves in the place of Jesus and also in that of the poor, questioning how many times we ignore those in need.
Francis posed the question: "When we encounter a beggar on the street, how many times do we look the other way? Do I look at them as Jesus does? How many times do we ignore them as if they do not exist?" He emphasized that by approaching a poor person and showing empathy, it is Jesus who approaches in the person of that needy individual, and that giving alms means looking the beggar in the eye.
In his speech, the Pope recalled the story of Bartimaeus, a blind man who, despite his physical limitation, saw with the eyes of faith. He emphasized that everyone can identify with Bartimaeus, highlighting their own limitations and the need to approach Jesus with faith. He also pointed out that Bartimaeus' cry was not just a request for help, but contained a profound challenge.
Francis stressed the importance of listening to and looking at those who cry out for help, noting that by doing so, divine grace can act in the lives of both the needy and those who assist. He also criticized the indifference of the crowd that accompanied Jesus in the story of Bartimaeus, contrasting it with the receptive attitude of those who were genuinely open to grace.
Ultimately, the Pontiff urged the recognition of the importance of viewing the poor with compassion and empathy, following the example of Jesus, who was always willing to listen to and care for those in need.
