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

When I was in the seminary, I enjoyed my classes on the Liturgy and the Scriptures. Fr. Hoppough taught the Liturgy classes. He made certain that we understood that the Liturgy is the Mass, the Liturgy of the Hours, and the Sacraments. With this in mind, it is interesting to see what scriptures that the Church uses for the Mass and in the Liturgy of the Hours to help us understand more deeply the mystery of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. From these selections, see the essence of the devotion that has been deepened by the different revelations that Jesus has made to several saints, among whom are Sts. Gertrude, Margaret Mary, and Faustina, shine forth special ways. 

For this Novena of days, we will be exploring nine different scripture selections from the Liturgy of the church that will give us a solid foundation and insight into the heart that burns with a deep desire for us! Each day will have a different passage with which to pray, some reflection questions, and the novena prayer to pray to end each prayer. 

May the Lord fill your heart with a deeper love for His as you journey to the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. 

Novena Scripture – Day One – Romans 8:28-39
Our first Scripture will come from the Office of Readings for the Liturgy of the Hours. The first reading is Romans 8: 28-39. This scripture from St. Paul gives us an insight into how deeply we are loved by the Lord. So much so that nothing can separate us from it. Even when we refuse it, the Lord will still pursue us; He will always invite us to receive this love. That is a powerful thought; it expresses so well the fidelity or faithfulness of the Lord. The Daughters of St. Paul sing a beautiful rendition of this verse. I remember hear it on an old rosary cd that they had.
 
Using the praying with the scriptures blog or post for a Lectio Divina with Romans 8: 28-39

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 for this Feast Day?
 
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 granted. 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.