Episode 2592: Finding Refuge in the Heart of Jesus - Nightly Episode

“O my God, at the end of this day I thank You most heartily for all the graces I have received
from You. I am sorry that I have not made better use of them. I am sorry for all the sins I have
committed against You. Forgive me, O my God, and graciously protect me this night. Blessed
Virgin Mary, my dear heavenly mother, take me under your protection. St. Joseph, my dear
Guardian Angel, and all you saints of God, pray for me. Sweet Jesus, have pity on all poor
sinners, and save them from hell. Have mercy on the suffering souls in purgatory. Amen.”
Finding Refuge in the Heart of Jesus
Welcome to today's episode, where we explore the profound relationship between suffering, healing, and the heart of Jesus through the lens of traditional Catholic spirituality. In a world that often feels chaotic and burdensome, we can find peace by losing ourselves in the love of Christ. Today, we will reflect on two powerful quotes—one from St. Margaret Mary Alacoque and another from St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein)—and examine how they guide us toward a deeper understanding of our relationship with God amidst life's trials.
St. Margaret Mary beautifully said, “I need nothing but God, and to lose myself in the heart of Jesus.” This statement encapsulates the essence of our faith: that our ultimate fulfillment lies in a profound union with God. It calls us to surrender our worries, desires, and fears, allowing His love to fill the emptiness within us.
In contrast, St. Teresa Benedicta offers a prayer that encompasses the complexity of human suffering: "...Bless all the hearts, the clouded ones, Lord above all... Give me strength, and I'll bear it in penitence to the grave." Here, we are reminded that while suffering is an inevitable part of life, we are not left alone. God’s mercy and healing grace surround us, providing comfort in our darkest hours.
Segment 1: The Heart of Jesus
Let’s first delve into St. Margaret Mary's devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Her emphasis on needing nothing but God reveals a truth that many of us struggle to embrace. In our busy lives, we often seek fulfillment in material possessions, social status, or personal achievements. Yet, true peace comes only from turning our hearts toward Jesus.

In the Gospel of John (15:4), Jesus invites us to “abide in Me, and I in you.” This call to intimacy with Christ echoes throughout the scriptures. Just as a branch must remain connected to the vine to bear fruit, we, too, must remain united with Christ to experience the fullness of life.
When we surrender our will and desires to Him, we open ourselves to divine love and grace. This is where true healing begins. We can lay down our burdens, worries, and guilt, allowing His heart to envelop ours.
Segment 2: The Reality of Suffering
Now, let’s reflect on St. Teresa Benedicta's poignant prayer. She captures the universal experience of suffering—whether through illness, grief, or the burdens of life. Her words remind us that, in the face of pain, we can still find hope and healing in God’s mercy.
In Psalm 34:18, we are assured that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This psalm speaks to the profound comfort that God provides to those in distress. It reassures us that we are never abandoned in our suffering; rather, we are invited to lean into His embrace, where healing and peace await.
St. Teresa’s request for strength to bear her burdens “in penitence to the grave” highlights the redemptive nature of suffering. In the Catholic tradition, suffering is not seen as pointless but as a pathway to deeper communion with Christ, who Himself suffered for our sake. By embracing our own suffering with love and trust, we can transform it into a means of grace for ourselves and for others.
Segment 3: Intercession and the Communion of Saints
We must not forget the power of prayer and intercession in our journey. St. Teresa’s plea for blessings upon “the clouded ones” resonates deeply. It reminds us of our call to intercede for others in their struggles. As members of the Communion of Saints, we share in the mission of bringing God’s love and healing to those in need.
Let us also remember those who have passed, as St. Teresa did when she asked for peace for “all the dead.” The Catholic faith teaches us to pray for the souls in purgatory, that they may find rest in God’s eternal peace. We can offer Masses, prayers, and sacrifices for their sake, demonstrating our love and solidarity with them on their journey.

Conclusion
As we conclude today’s episode, let us reflect on the message of surrender and healing. In times of suffering, let us remember St. Margaret Mary's call to find refuge in the heart of Jesus. By surrendering our lives to Him, we can discover a wellspring of peace and hope.
Let us also carry St. Teresa Benedicta’s spirit of intercession, praying for ourselves and for those around us. We are reminded that God’s mercy knows no bounds, and through our trials, we can experience the depths of His love and compassion.
Closing Prayer
Let us take a moment to pray:
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, and His Sacred Heart, which beats with love for us all. We ask for the grace to lose ourselves in His heart, finding our strength in Him alone. In times of suffering and trial, may we draw closer to You and find peace in Your mercy. Lord, bless all the suffering hearts, grant healing to the sick, and bring comfort to those who mourn. Help us to bear our burdens with love and to share Your light with others. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Thank you for joining us today. Until next time, may you find comfort in the heart of Jesus and be filled with His peace.