The Gospel according to Luke (15:3-7)
Jesus addressed this parable to the Pharisees and scribes: “What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it? And when he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders with great joy and, upon his arrival home, he calls together his friends and neighbors and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you, in just the same way there will be more joy in Heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance.”
Reflection:
To some, The Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus may seem like an old and outdated celebration in the Church. It is often seen as one of those ancient feasts that have little meaning in our lives today. Nothing could be further from the truth!
The Sacred Heart of Jesus is exactly what we need to know, experience and receive in our lives today. His heart, that heart which was pierced by the lance and from which flowed blood and water, is the sign, symbol and source of the burning love of His very soul. The blood is an image of the Most Holy Eucharist and the water is an image of the cleansing waters of Baptism.
This celebration of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a celebration of Jesus pouring out on us His whole life and all of His love. He held nothing back, which is symbolized by the pouring forth of the last drop of this blood and water from His Heart as He lay there dead on the Cross. Though it’s a very graphic image, it’s graphic to make a point. The point, again, is that He held nothing back. We need to realize that Jesus continues to give us everything if we are willing to receive it.
Action:
We need to know His love more deeply in lives today. Try spending time thinking about this particular Scripture: “…but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out” (John 19:33-34). Spend time reflecting upon that last self gift, the gift of that water and blood flowing from His wounded Heart. It is a sign of His infinite love for us. Reflect upon it being poured out especially for you. See it, be immersed in it, and be open to it. Let His love transform and fill you.
Audio Reflection:
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