Thank you, Jesus, for the mystery of your broken heart, a heart broken by us and for us, that has now become the source of forgiveness and new life. The blood and water flowing from your side show me the new life that is given to me through your death. It is a life of intimate communion with you and your Father. But it is also a life that calls me to give all that I am in the service of your love for the world. It is a life of joy, but also of sacrifice. It is a glorious life, but also one of suffering. It is a life of peace, but also of struggle. Yes, Lord, it is a life of water and blood, but no longer water and blood that destroy, but water and blood that come from your heart and so bring reconciliation and peace… May our hearts be one so that the world may recognize that it is you who sent me, not to condemn, but to offer your heart to all who search for love.
--Henri Nouwen, Heart Speaks to Heart
Image source: Giotto di Bondone, Crucifix (detail; ca. 1290-1300), gold and tempera on panel, Santa Maria Novella, Florence, http://www.travelingintuscany.com/art/giotto/crucifix.htm
No comments:
Post a Comment