On Laetare Sunday during Lent, Benedict XVI presents Christian joy as anticipation of Easter and confidence in God’s infinite mercy. Even trials and punishment can become means by which God draws people back to himself and leads them toward forgiveness. Reflecting on Saint Paul and the Gospel of John, he points to the Father’s gift of his only Son as the supreme revelation of divine love. The Cross discloses God’s redeeming tenderness and his identity as love.