This devotion of the Church points to the “heart” of Christ which encompasses the entire mystery of Christ and His entire person and being.
When we speak of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we mean to glorify the infinite and perfect love Christ has for the Father and for each of us.
Jesus didn’t hold anything back; He gave—and continues to give—all that He is and that He has. The Gospel asks everything of us because it offers us…everything in return.
“Devotion to the Sacred Heart…calls for a fundamental attitude of conversion and reparation, of love and gratitude, apostolic commitment and dedication to Christ and his saving work” (Catholicculture.org).
This is about love-in-action.
Devotion to the Sacred Heart is not about a sentimental love, or a love which retreats into itself or into self-righteous piety. As St. John Paul II wrote: “The heart-to-heart with Jesus broadens the human heart on a global scale.” It is a tall order.
Sometimes Christians are accused of being stingy in giving of their wealth but generous in doling out judgmental attitudes. Unfortunately that can be true of many of us. But the Sacred Heart of Christ can never be accused of stinginess, and Jesus invites us to follow Him—He who is “meek and humble of heart.”
Jesus, please open up our hearts to be capable of holding all the love you have for each of us—all of us, whether sinners or saints, rich or poor, sheltered or homeless.
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This month, whatever is wearing you down, entrust it to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Litany to the Sacred Heart can be your guide.
If you are worried about finances: Heart of Jesus, rich to all who invoke You, have mercy on us.
If you don’t know your way forward and are seeking guidance, Heart of Jesus, our life and resurrection, have mercy on us.
If you are grieving or overcome with sadness, Heart of Jesus, source of all consolation, have mercy on us.
If you are disillusioned by the poor example of elders, clergy or other Catholics: Heart of Jesus, full of goodness and love, have mercy on us.
Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3: 5-6)