Today is June 27, the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
In the readings for today’s feast, we read, “The love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us. For Christ, while we were still helpless, died at the appointed time for the ungodly” (Rom 5:5).
Today we celebrate the great feast that has been the goal of our month-long journey: the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. This is the high point of June, the feast of love itself.
Some may think devotion to the Sacred Heart is merely a late medieval or post-baroque invention, popularized after the mystical visions of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. But the truth is, the mystery at the heart of this devotion, the mystery of Divine Love, is as old as Christianity itself. In fact, it is Christianity: the love of Christ crucified and risen, poured out for sinners, drawing all people into the merciful heart of God.
Drawn into Christ’s compassion
Pope Benedict XVI once wrote that “adoring contemplation of the side pierced by the spear makes us sensitive to God’s salvific will.” In other words, contemplating Christ’s Sacred Heart — his love made visible — transforms us. It helps us entrust ourselves to his mercy and strengthens us to become instruments of that same mercy for others.
So today’s feast is more than mere sentiment. It is an invitation. When we fix our gaze on the pierced side of Christ, we are drawn into his compassion. We begin to love what he loves and to suffer with those who suffer.
Today’s invitation is simple but profound: Spend time in prayerful silence, contemplating the Sacred Heart. Let it speak to your heart. Ask: How is Christ calling me to be his instrument? Where do I need to receive his mercy more deeply? Whom is he calling me to love with greater tenderness?
Let the Heart of Jesus mold your heart today.
Let us pray,
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that we, who glory in the Heart of your beloved Son and recall the wonders of his love for us, may be made worthy to receive an overflowing measure of grace from that fount of heavenly gifts. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
