Word on the global street is that the Bishop of Rome is scheduled to pitch his fourth encyclical midweek. It is entitled Delexit nos—Encyclical Letter on the Human and Divine Love of the Heart of Jesus Christ.

This letter to the global church is prompt. It comes at the 350th anniversary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus’ first apparition to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque in 1673. The young French Sister received the mission to tell the world of Jesus’ deep love for the world. His love is manifested through his human heart. His Sacred Hearts is embraced with thorns and crowned with a raging flame of love burning for humanity.

The heart of Jesus is the “chief sign and symbol” of his love for the Father and the world. It is a threefold love. (Pope Pius XII, Haurietis Aquas 55-57). First, John tells us that God is love. God not only loves us, he is love itself. Second, God desires our well-being. He sends Jesus to reveal love to its greatest end. Jesus lays down his life on our behalf. This love is a free self-offering to the Father and for us. Finally, the love of Jesus is sensible. The human feelings of Jesus for us are clear in his way of loving.

On the fiftieth anniversary of Pope Pius’ letter, Pope Benedict XVI called us to renew our devotion. Through the Sacred Heart we can know, experience, and live this love. We are to be witnesses of Jesus’ love for the world.

Francis spoke of how the heart of Jesus is the center of mercy. He spoke of how love is mercy. It will be a fascinating read as Francis invites the world to consider once again the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The image of Saint John, the Beloved, always moves me. At the last supper, he placed his ears against the chest of our Lord. There, he rests. There, he listens to the heart that loves him. He listens to the heart that loves all humanity with the burning zeal committed to the Cross.

Here is a song very appropriate in our anticipation for this letter, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross. Let it’s words move our hearts to what is most important in life.