June 8, 2018 Friday THE SOLEMNITY OF THE MOST SACRED HEART OF JESUS—B

Hosea 11:1, 3-4, 8-9

Psalm Isaiah 12:2-3, 4, 5-6

Ephesians 3:8-12, 14-19

John 19:31-37

My heart is overwhelmed, my pity stirred.  Hosea 11:8

…to know the love of Christ which surpasses all knowledge… Eph 3:19

Lord, the prophet-poet Hosea describes your love for us in very human ways.  Your love is like a parent joyfully playing with and hugging a toddler learning to walk.  He goes on to images of a father who feeds and nourishes his child and then to patient healing of a rebellious teenager.  How can God be overwhelmed with love for his sinful creatures that turn away from him time after time?  Lord, despite my unworthiness, you gave your life for me on the cross.  The blood and water which flowed from your pierced heart is like the love and grace which pours from it today.  I can know in my head that you love me, but it is only when your love possesses my heart that it becomes real.  You love is beyond my ability to comprehend so I can only rest in your arms and give my heart to you.  Dear Jesus, help me to empty myself of whatever blocks your love and then fill me up with it.  Give me a childlike trust in your complete and tender care so I can be a sign of your love to others.  Amen.