Pope Leo XIV Says Christ’s Love Inspires Christians to Love Others

Vatican City, May 10, 2026: Pope Leo XIV has reminded Catholics that the love of Jesus is unconditional and enduring, saying that Christ’s love inspires believers to love one another and remain faithful during life’s trials.

Speaking during the Regina Caeli address at the Vatican on Sunday, the Pope reflected on the Gospel according to St. John, in which Jesus tells His disciples, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”

Pope Leo said the passage should not be understood as a condition that believers must fulfil in order to receive God’s love. Instead, he stressed that God’s love comes first and becomes the foundation for Christian life and righteousness.

“This statement frees us from the misconception that we are loved because we keep the commandments,” the Pope said, explaining that God’s love is “the condition for our righteousness”.

The Pope described Jesus’ words as an invitation to enter into a relationship with God rather than an ultimatum. He added that Christ’s love becomes the model for how Christians are called to love others.

“It is Jesus’ love that begets love within us,” Pope Leo said, noting that Christ’s love is faithful, pure, and unconditional.

The Holy Father explained that only those who have experienced love are able to love others genuinely. He said the commandments of God are “a way of life” that guide believers away from false loves and towards salvation.

Pope Leo also reflected on the promise of the Holy Spirit, describing the Spirit as the “Advocate” and the “Spirit of truth” who remains with believers during difficulties and challenges.

At the same time, the Pope warned against the presence of evil and division in the world. Referring to the devil as the “father of lies”, he said forces opposed to God attempt to turn people against one another and obstruct efforts to live according to the Gospel.

Despite these challenges, Pope Leo encouraged Christians to continue bearing witness to God’s love “always and everywhere”.

Concluding his address, the Pope urged the faithful to remain grateful for the Lord’s unconditional love and entrusted them to the intercession of the Virgin Mary.

Courtesy: Vatican News

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