Here is a story that beautifully expresses the message of the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus:
Once in a small village nestled among rolling hills, there lived a young girl named Maria. Maria was known for her kindness and selflessness. She spent her days helping those in need, caring for the sick, and comforting the lonely. Her heart overflowed with love and compassion for others.
One day, news reached the village of a terrible storm that had ravaged a neighbouring town. Homes were destroyed, crops were ruined, and many people were left homeless and hungry. Maria's heart ached for the suffering of those affected, and she felt an urgent call to help them.
Without hesitation, Maria gathered whatever provisions she could spare: blankets, food, and clothing. She set off on a long journey to the devastated town, carrying her supplies in a worn-out bag. Along the way, she encountered weary travellers and offered them a smile, a kind word, and even a share of her provisions.
As Maria arrived in the ruined town, she was greeted by a heart breaking sight. Despair and hopelessness filled the air. But Maria's presence brought a ray of light amidst the darkness. She distributed the supplies she had brought, providing comfort and solace to those in need.
Word of Maria's selfless acts spread quickly, and soon people from neighbouring villages started to lend a hand. Together, they worked tirelessly to rebuild homes, sow new seeds, and restore hope in the hearts of the afflicted. The village slowly transformed from a place of despair to a beacon of resilience and love.
There are many examples in the Gospels where the heart of Jesus was overflowing with compassion and forgiveness. Jesus shares the Merciful Forgiveness through the parable of the Prodigal Son. It tells the story of a wayward son who squanders his inheritance in a life of sin and eventually returns home, filled with remorse. Despite the son's unworthiness, his father embraces him with open arms, showering him with forgiveness and love. This beautiful parable reveals the tender and compassionate nature of our Jesus’ heart. It teaches us that no matter how far we may have strayed, Jesus's heart remains open to us, ready to forgive and restore us to the fullness of life.
Again Mark narrates the Healing Touch of Jesus. We encounter a woman suffering from a hemorrhage for twelve long years. She had sought the help of various physicians but found no relief. In faith, she approached Jesus, believing that if she could only touch His garment, she would be healed. As she touched His cloak, Jesus felt power go out from Him, and the woman was instantly cured. Through this encounter, Jesus reveals His heart as a source of healing, comfort, and restoration.
There are many instances where Jesus was filled with compassion.
"When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." (Matthew 9:36:). He had compassion on the man affected with leprosy (Mark 1:40-41). Jesus had compassion on blind and healed them." (Matthew 20:34:)
Dear brothers and sisters, the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus holds a transformative power in our lives. Let us open our hearts to receive this divine love, allowing it to flow through us and transform us into beacons of His love and mercy in the world. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be our guide, our strength.
Satish