Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Ez. 34:11-16 | Ps. 23:1-6 | Rom. 5:5b-11 Lk. 15:3-7
All the readings refer to God as the Shepherd who has come to us in the person of Jesus Christ. God promises us, in Ezekiel, not to abandon us. Rather, God promises to seek out the sheep; to help those in need; to strengthen those who are weak; to feed the hungry; and, to bind up those who are wounded. These are all tasks of any good shepherd. God being the first among these has done these tasks for so many people throughout the ages and will continue to do so today as well.
Paul reminds us that God has responded to our needs by sending Jesus at the right moment in time to save us through the saving act of Jesus’ death on the cross. Jesus tells us that there is great rejoicing in heaven over the return of one sinner to God. Jesus compares God’s joy to that of a woman who has lost a coin and sweeps the whole house in search of it. When it is found she calls all around her to celebrate. Can you imagine what it is like when God celebrates our return to Him? Imagine losing something that has meaning for you and then finding it. How happy are you? Give time to reflecting on God’s deep love for you.
Thank God for all the ways and times you have been saved, healed, forgiven. Rest in God’s love and blessings.