Pope Francis: ‘In Christianity, there is no condemnation of the sexual instinct’
Pope Francis delivered a powerful message during his general audience on Wednesday, stating that in Christianity, there is no condemnation of the sexual instinct. The pontiff focused his reflection on the difference between love and lust, emphasizing the importance of love and respect within relationships.
Drawing upon the Song of Songs, also known as the Canticle of Canticles or the Song of Solomon, Pope Francis described falling in love as one of the most astonishing realities of existence. He highlighted the altruistic nature of love, where individuals become generous, selfless, and completely focused on the other person.
To love is to respect the other, to seek their happiness, to cultivate empathy for their feelings, the pope stated. He further emphasized that love requires patience, especially in the initial stages when individuals tend to idealize their partners and make promises without fully understanding their weight.
However, Pope Francis also acknowledged the dangers of lust, which he referred to as a particularly odious vice that destroys relationships. Lust, according to the pope, manifests as possessiveness, lack of respect, and disregard for boundaries. He cautioned against abandoning chastity, explaining that it is not limited to sexual abstinence but rather encompasses the will to never possess the other person.
The pope emphasized the importance of patience in building loving relationships, noting that the road to love must be traveled slowly. Lust, on the other hand, seeks shortcuts and immediate gratification, often leading to toxic relationships and the deprivation of human freedom.
Pope Francis concluded his reflection by acknowledging that the battle against lust and objectification requires lifelong effort. However, he maintained that it is through love, tenderness, and serving one another that individuals can experience the beauty of a shared story and true happiness.
The pope’s message resonated with the faithful gathered at the Paul VI Audience Hall, reminding them of the need to cultivate love, respect, and patience in their relationships. By highlighting the difference between love and lust, Pope Francis offered guidance and encouragement to those seeking to build healthy and fulfilling connections with others.
Pope Francis’ insightful reflections underscore the importance of love and respect in relationships, challenging societal norms and encouraging individuals to prioritize genuine connections over selfish desires. His words serve as a reminder of Christianity’s teachings on love and offer guidance on navigating the complexities of modern relationships.
