See, how the multitude of our proud and cruel sins has wounded the innocent Heart of a God who does not merit such offence.

Our sins directed the soldier’s thrust with the lance, and our mortal sins sharpened the iron point of the spear.

The Church, the Spouse of Christ, is born from His broken Heart, which is the gate made in the side of the ark for the salvation of all mankind.

Out of that door grace flows incessantly as from a sevenfold stream, that we may wash our soiled robes in the Blood of the Lamb.

Evil were it to return to the sins, which wound that Blessed Heart: rather let us strive to kindle in our own hearts those flames, which symbolize His Divine Love.

To Thee, O Jesus, who didst pour forth grace from Thy Heart, may glory be given, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, forever and ever. Amen.

-Hymn of Vespers of the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus