The Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Ezk. 34:11-16, Rom. 5: 5-11, Lk.15:3-7. As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we reflect on the tender, soft-hearted and caring image of Jesus. It is in Jesus therefore, we recognise the love of God poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. In today's first reading, God becomes the ideal Shepherd of Israel, the One who guides His people to the right path, protecting them from harm, binding and healing their injuries, watching over them and looking out for those who are lost. He guides them with justice, mercy and compassion, which is exactly what the Lord Jesus reiterates in today's Gospel with the parable of the lost sheep. Here, Jesus speaks of God’s tireless search for sinners.

No one is ever beyond the reach of God’s love and compassionate mercy. Today's Solemnity invites us to have full confidence in God’s constant love for us. God is caring and merciful, as a shepherd cares for the sheep of his flock. Using the “Heart of Jesus” as a symbol of love, the Church strongly promotes trust in Jesus as the incarnate love of God. In the depiction of His Most Sacred Heart, we see the Lord’s Heart being surrounded by crown of thorns and with a great burning flame representing His ever passionate and burning love for us. The crown of thorns represents all the pains and sufferings He had for us. Let us continue to appreciate His love, mercy and compassion, shown to the worst and most rebellious, the most wicked and the greatest of sinners.

May the Lord Jesus Christ, His most loving Sacred Heart continue to love us, now and forevermore! Amen!! Good morning and have a glorious day!!!