The Richness of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twelveth  Week :  Friday*

*Feast : Sacred Heart of Jesus*

*Gospel : Lk 15:3–7*

*First Reading : Ez 34:11–16*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6*

*Second Reading Rom 5:5b–11*

*The Richness of the Sacred Heart of Jesus*

*1) A Heart of Love for All Humanity*

*“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son...”*

— John 3:16

The Sacred Heart symbolizes the total self-gift of Jesus, sent by the Father out of pure love. 

His heart reflects the depth of divine compassion poured out for the salvation of the world.

*2) A Pierced Heart: Love Through Sacrifice*

The spear that pierced Jesus’ side on the cross reached His heart. 

From it flowed blood and water—signs of the Eucharist and Baptism, the Church’s birth from Christ’s wounded heart. 

This is a profound image of sacrificial love and divine mercy.

*3) A Gentle and Humble Heart*

Jesus reveals His own heart to be gentle and  humble, offering comfort and rest to those who are burdened. 

His Sacred Heart is a source of peace for the weary and broken.

*4) The Compassionate Heart of Christ*

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus is moved with compassion—a movement from His heart. 

This inner stirring of mercy characterizes His encounters with the sick, the hungry, the sinner, and the outcast.

*5) The Loving Shepherd’s Heart*

Jesus’ heart is that of a Good Shepherd—a heart that knows each of His sheep, protects them, and lays down His life for them. 

His Sacred Heart is the heart of one who loves even to death.

*6) A Heart that Suffers for Love*

In Gethsemane, Jesus reveals a heart that feels deep anguish. 

His Sacred Heart shares in the full range of human emotion, especially the pain of betrayal, loneliness, and suffering—out of love for us.

*7) The Heart That Weeps and Feels*

Jesus weeps for Jerusalem. His heart is deeply moved, not detached. 

The Sacred Heart is not only divine, but also fully human—capable of feeling pain, longing, and sorrow for people.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*