The Sacred Heart – Exploring the scriptures used for the Feast in the Liturgy of the Church

The next three days of scriptures for this novena center on the love of the Lord for His Church. Each selection from the Liturgy gives us an insight into this great love. Today’s passage is used as the reading from Evening Prayer I or First Vespers. Christ loved the church. That verse tells us of a special place in the heart of Jesus for the church. Knowing of Jesus love for us as the church is what can give us confidence to approach Him. The Church is the bride of Christ. “He sanctifies and purifies, through Baptism, those who are going to become members of His Church. The sacrament of Baptism, reflected in the words “by the washing of water with the word,” applies that redemption which Jesus has brought about through his sacrifice on the Cross” (Navarre Bible). Thus, we see the love of Christ for His Church, even unto death! What love with which the Heart of Jesus burns for His bride the Church!
 
Using the praying with the scriptures blog for a Lectio Divina with  Ephesians 5:25-27.

As you pray with this passage, what are the thoughts, feelings, and desires that well up within you as you consider this passage in light of the Heart of Jesus that burns with desire for you?
 
How does this passage help you to understand the Sacred Heart of Jesus (or why would the Church include this in the Liturgy of the Hours/Mass for this Feast Day)?
 
Write down the verse that speaks to you in a powerful way. Write it down and put it in a place that you will see frequently so that you can be reminded of the love the Heart of Jesus has for you!
 
Pray this Novena prayer to the Sacred Heart to conclude your prayer time.
Divine Jesus, You have said, “Ask and you shall receive; seek and you shall find; knock and it shall be opened to you.” Behold me kneeling at Your feet, filled with a lively faith and confidence in the promises dictated by Your Sacred Heart to St. Margaret Mary. I come to ask this favor: (Mention your request)?

To whom can I turn if not to You, Whose Heart is the source of all graces and merits? Where should I seek if not in the treasure which contains all the riches of Your Kindness and mercy? Where should I knock if not at the door through which God gives Himself to us and through which we go to God? I have recourse to You, Heart of Jesus. In You I find consolation when afflicted, protection when persecuted, strength when burdened with trials, and light in doubt and darkness.

Dear Jesus, I firmly believe that You can grant me the grace I implore, even though it should require a miracle. You have only to will it and my prayer will be grated. I admit that I am most unworthy of Your favors, but this is not a reason for me to be discouraged. You are the God of mercy, and You will not refuse a contrite heart. Cast upon me a look of mercy, I beg of You, and Your kind Heart will find in my miseries and weakness a reason for granting my prayer.

Sacred Heart, whatever may be Your decision with regard to my request, I will never stop adoring, loving, praising, and serving You. My Jesus, be pleased to accept this my act of perfect resignation to the decrees of Your adorable Heart, which I sincerely desire may be fulfilled in and by me and all Your creatures forever.

Grant me the grace for which I humbly implore You through the Immaculate Heart of Your most sorrowful Mother. You entrusted me to her as her child, and her prayers and all-powerful with You. Amen. (From a Treasury of Novenas: Catholic Book Publishing Company)