I love the fact that the readings for this Solemnity of the Sacred Heart highlight the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd.  When I was on pilgrimage in Rome and Germany in 2002, I was touched by how often I “met” the Shepherd.  This image is everywhere!

One of the things I have come to appreciate about the Good Shepherd image is that when the shepherd carries a sheep over his shoulders, the ear of the shepherd is very near the heart of the sheep.  For me, it’s one more tender way that Jesus reminds me of His gentle and personal love for me. I know He hears not only what I say but also what I carry in my heart — the joys and sorrows, frustrations and victories.

Today is a good day to pause, reflect and thank God that His heart connects with  mine in a love that is beyond my wildest imagining! Sacred Heart of Jesus, change my heart to be like yours.