Bloody Knuckles

I am so grateful to the Uttaro's for introducing me to the Divine House Guest of Souls devotion. Previously, I had developed a habit of staying after Mass to thank The Lord for coming into my soul. I knew it was such a special time, and I always wanted to enter more into it. This devotion was an answer to this prayer.

My contemplation of Jesus entering my heart, His home, became full of life! He was the weary traveler in need of a heart to rest His head. So I'd prepare a room for Him in my soul! What kind of pillow would He like? What will He want to eat? He must be thirsty! Before each Mass I would prepare this place Him. I often thought of St. Therese who told Jesus that He can sleep on the cushion in the boat of her heart. I wanted Jesus to find a place to rest His head in my heart too.

One time after preparing to welcome Jesus in Communion, I ran out to greet Him. He seemed particularly tired this day and He was weary from His travels. As I brought Him to my home, I noticed His right hand had bloody knuckles. My first thought was, "were you in a fight, Lord?!" He shook His head no. (Of course, not!)

Then Jesus lifted His right hand and did the knocking motion as if He was knocking on an invisible door. I understood right away as the scripture came to mind,"Behold, I stand at the door and knock.." (Rev. 3:20). Jesus had been going around knocking on the doors of hearts. I wept with Him. How much His heart must hurt when souls don't open the door to His knocking? My prayer for these souls became fervent.

I truly believe Jesus wants to share more and more with us. This devotion has made me more attentive to the needs of Jesus instead of my own. He always takes care of us when we take care of Him!

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me." (Rev. 3:20)

Yes, Lord.

-Darcie N.