Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Scripture:
Hosea 11:1, 3-4, 8c-9
Ephesians 3:8-12, 14-19
John 19:31-37
Reflection:
“…My heart is overwhelmed,
my pity is stirred.
I will not give vent to my blazing anger,
I will not destroy Ephraim again…” (Hos 11:8-9)
I saw a good movie the other day, “Ezra.” I cried through most of it. It’s all about a little boy, identified as having a prevalent disability today, who is imperfectly loved by three people: his mother, his father and his grandfather. I related best to the grandfather.
On another note, I get up each morning to the singing, chirping, or squawking of the birds. The adjective, I use all depends on how I’m feeling that day. You see, a few years ago I started making bread during the Covid lockdowns and despite the bread’s total imperfections, the birds never fail to eat whatever I have to offer them. I love the birds, but sometimes, I just wish they would be quiet and look for food elsewhere.
Speaking of animals, walking in my neighborhood, I come across many dog walkers doing their chores. Most of the walkers will not make eye contact with me. I suspect they are too busy or just don’t have time for a random stranger. The dogs on the other hand, almost always make eye contact with me. It’s usually brief, but the simple moment’s contact, seems to say: “You’re ok!”
In today’s scripture selection from the prophet Hosea, I once again hear of God’s undying love for me, Israel and all of creation, despite our often ignoring Him. I believe God, wants our attention: our eye contact; our smelling of the flowers; our acknowledgement of the beautiful people around us. God, thank you for Your creation. Help me today, to acknowledge Your love in my life and to share that with every person, every pet and every plant you put in my life today.
Dan O’Donnell is a Passionist Partner and a longtime friend of the Passionists. He lives in Chicago.