Readings:
Ezekiel 34:11-16
Romans 5:5-11
Luke 15:3-7
Reflection
Love has always been associated with the heart, so it was only natural that the love of God became represented by a heart, the heart of his Son Jesus. In him, God the Father revealed his infinite love for us. We see that God’s heart is consumed with love for us—so much so that he was willing to suffer and die for us in the most gruesome manner.
The message of today’s feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and of today’s readings is the most basic truth of all: God loves us. He loves humanity so much that he sent his Son who loved us to the very end, giving his life for us.
The reading from Romans tells us that “we have been reconciled by the death of his Son” and that “the love of God has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit which has been given us.”
The Gospel reminds us that every human is loved by God. God will leave the ninety-nine to find the one who is lost and bring them home.
This feast challenges us to love everyone, to show mercy and compassion to all, just as God does to us. Are we willing make ourselves vulnerable and suffer for love?
The Sacred Heart teaches us that true love is always costly, but that it always gives life.
Joanne McGrath is a parishioner of St Brigid’s Marrickville and a Passionist Companion.