Through the centuries, the Christian community has consistently tried to capture its developing understanding of Jesus Christ in word and image, a never ending challenge to portray the Mystery of the love of God made visible in the man, Jesus of Nazareth, who went about doing good and eventually laid down his life for us.
The statue to the right, or one very like it, is familiar to the Sacred Heart family across the world. Crafted by Frederick A. Brunner, this image of Christ has pride of place in nearly every Sacred Heart school. It expresses perfectly one of the three Gospel passages appointed for the Feast of the Sacred Heart: “Come to me, all you who are weary and find life burdensome, and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon your shoulders and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart.” (Matt. 11)
This image of Christ is serene and tender. He opens his arms to everyone, no exceptions. Each one of us may find a home in his heart and there, gradually, we may learn his dispositions and attitudes – respect, compassion, forgiveness and generosity – and embrace them as our own.
~ Kathleen Hughes, RSCJJune 2013
This was the first of our series of monthly email reflections from the Society of the Sacred Heart exploring the meaning of Sacred Heart spirituality for today. If you would like to receive a message from us on the First Friday of each month, please sign up for E-news.
