Heart Of My Own Heart
In his thoughtful new book "Heart of My Own Heart," John-Francis Friendship explores the profound significance of the Sacred Heart in Christian spirituality. Through careful theological reflection and pastoral insight, Friendship examines how the Sacred Heart serves as a universal symbol of Divine Love and what it means to truly love God with our whole heart.
Exactly when my interest in Jesus’ Sacred Heart began I can’t now remember. What I do recall is its attraction – that red Heart blazing on Jesus’ breast, encircled by a crown of thorns and surmounted by the cross spoke more powerfully than words. It was only later I learnt that such an image wasn’t ‘Anglican’, that representations were gauche, bloodthirsty art of poor quality … . yet, since then, I’ve discovered it can connect with believer and unbeliever alike. I know ‘finger hearts’ and emoji’s are popular with some but the image of the Sacred Heart, with the instruments of Jesus’ Passion, provides the image of Christian love. Yet mention of the ‘Sacred Heart’ can lead some to dismiss what is the very centre of Jesus’ being; as I wrote in the Introduction:
“‘I know certain of its images can seem overly sentimental and gruesome so, if that’s your experience, be patient; take what’s useful and place the rest where it could be considered later, for this divine mystery has much to reveal. To develop a relationship with this Heart … means giving attention to the source of that love informing our faith while, conversely, doing so to those with corrupted hearts – not least of demagogues and dictators – is likely to blind us to the light of Christ.’”
Like others I regret that most non-Catholics are unaware of the importance of the Sacred Heart as the focus of being. Some find certain depictions distasteful and off-putting, yet to ignore this central aspect of the Incarnation does nothing to help awareness of God’s Divine Compassion for the world.
A ‘spirituality of the heart’ flourished for centuries, reaching a peak with apparitions of Jesus and the Sacred Heart to St Margaret Mary Alaqoque in the 17 th century. She was a member of the Visitation Order founded by Ss. Francis de Sales and Jane-Frances de Chantal and it was the former who played an important role in developing what is known as the French School of Spirituality which emphasises devotion to the humanity of Jesus. Francis was the author of the still popular book, Introduction to the Devout Life as well as being an important figure in the development of spiritual direction, especially for the laity.
This is why the book explores the vital importance of the heart’s purification, something understood by the Desert Elders but easily overlooked. The heart, even that of clergy, can become embittered and corrupted so I write about that love associated with the first ‘great’ Commandment and the Heart which is its source. The corruption of our own is the cause of so much suffering and there have been times when the need for its purification has been addressed.
Today many, whilst recognising the importance of the heart, associate it with experiences of pleasure and warm intimacy but the Sacred Heart, with its wounds and blood, Crown of Thorns and fiery flames is a reminder of the Heart of Jesus which suffered for the world just as the heart of the lover will for their Beloved. Today’s emphasis on ‘pleasant feelings’ in prayer can forget this, for the deepening of our relationship with Christ is by way of a change of heart, which will often be quite painful.
For deepening our relationship with Christ is by way of a painful change of heart, a deepening which can lead to a ‘spirituality of the heart’, especially Nuptial Mysticism (the union of the soul with God), and how we engage with Jesus ‘Heart of my heart’ is the ultimate focus of spiritual direction.
The image itself reminds us that Jesus’ Heart suffered, just as a lover’s will for their Beloved. From before Julian of Norwich’s Revelations of Divine Love to the apparitions of the Sacred Heart to St Margaret Mary Alaqoque this Heart continues to draw people, something Pope Francis addressed in his latest Encyclical, Dilexit nos, published at the same time as my book. So when directees say their relationship with Jesus is “OK” I try to encourage them to consider how they can set their heart ablaze with love for him – and my primary intention in offering this book is to help readers discover something of that Divine love symbolised by this Sacred Heart.
Questions for reflection:
How much has your own spirituality is informed by Jesus’ Heart – the Heart of God?
Look at an image of the Sacred Heart: notice what this tells you about our faith which Valentine’s heart may not?
How might the ministry of spiritual direction be informed by awareness of Jesus’ Heart?
How might the notion of the Sacred Heart of the Eucharist – and the Cosmos – help your faith?
Fr. John-Francis Friendship TSSF
Although John-Francis Friendship is no longer a First Order Franciscan, St. Francis's teachings remain foundational to his spiritual journey. He is now a member of the Third Order, while drawing inspiration from Benedictine, Carmelite and Ignatian traditions. After leaving his Religious vows in 2002, he trained in Ignatian Spirituality and later taught spiritual direction. He has authored several books, including "Enfolded in Christ" (2018). Today, he enjoys music, art, and walking in Oxleas Woods. He leads retreats and offers spiritual direction, helping others on their faith journeys.
Read more about John and his writing on his website or blog.