Overview:

The Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

A Reflection for the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened,
and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,
for I am meek and humble of heart;
and you will find rest for yourselves. 
For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

Find today’s readings here.

Recently I had lunch with a friend that I hadn’t seen in quite some time and we were catching up on a variety of things, from our work and home lives to places that we dream of traveling to. She shared with me that she picks a word to ground her at the start of each year and prioritizes it when making decisions. I walked away from that lunch wondering if I could come up with a word to center me. Less than a day later, it hit me that my word for the month of June would be freedom. 

Reading today’s Gospel, and most especially the lines above, I was struck by how freeing that passage is to all who read it. It reminds us all that we carry burdens, whether they are illness, financial troubles, family dynamics, anxiety, loneliness or guilt. But we don’t have to face these hardships alone, because He is inviting us to bring them to Him. Even during turmoil within ourselves or the world, something wonderful always happens with God.

We find peace and freedom in knowing that we are so loved by God that we are never truly facing these struggles alone. His infinite love, friendship and grace will guide us as we walk alongside Him through life’s daily struggles (and successes). By living in the ways that Jesus taught us to, we can share our heavy loads with him and find freedom knowing that he is always with us. 

Of course, sometimes it is easier said than done to bring our fears, anxieties and doubts to God. It is our faith at work when we turn to God. Faith is recognizing how much we need His love, guidance and grace, and asking Him for it. 

For me, that often happens on early morning walks when the sun is rising. I take some time to share my worries or frustrations for the day with God. By the time my walk is done, the day and its to-do list no longer seems quite so daunting. In feeling the freedom to share my worries and struggles, I discover that He is walking shoulder-to-shoulder with me throughout this earthly pilgrimage. 

I hope that today’s passage reminds you of his open invitation to come to Him at any time, and especially in a time of need, because He is always with us. I also invite you to come up with a word that grounds you and challenges you to become the best version of yourself.

Heather is America’s executive vice president.