Men's Rosary

This year has been designated as a year for the Eucharist. I would encourage all of us to take more time with Jesus in the Eucharist. This can be at adoration before the Eucharist exposed or before Him hidden in the tabernacle. Take time to search out where adoration is offered. Also arriving at Mass fifteen to thirty minutes early is a wonderful way spend time before Jesus in the tabernacle.

Following is a reflection I have shared on the Eucharist in my life. I hope it may encourage you to take time to consider the importance of the Eucharist in yours.

Eucharist Reflection

Being a convert to the Catholic faith, and coming in as an adult, the concept of the body, blood, soul and divinity of Christ being present in the Eucharist was something I had to learn about; and was blessed to come to believe.

As my faith matured, my understanding of the Eucharist deepened.  I have come to the point that I could not imagine life without it.  When we were locked out of churches, and could not receive the Eucharist during COVID, I felt as though I was dying inside.  When the churches were opened, and we could receive, I felt alive again! 

To have a relationship with someone, we must communicate with them, and spend time with them.  Prayer is how I speak to Jesus, and time before Him in adoration is how I simply be in His company and let Him speak to me.

I have had many consolations during adoration, but most of the time nothing spectacular happens. Sometimes, the hour feels like two or three!  Other times, it feels like only minutes. But I know that when I am with Him, I receive His graces, whether I recognize them or not.  

It does not matter how I “feel” or, what I “get out of it”.   If I don’t show up, I don’t receive the graces.

The Eucharist, to me, is God truly present in my life.  I have been blessed to be able to spend time with Him before the tabernacle every week, for almost two years.  No matter what is going on in my life, He is always there to comfort and guide me.  I feel tremendously blessed that He chose to remain with us in the Eucharist, to be our guide and companion.

In adoration, whether He be exposed in the monstrance, or hidden in the tabernacle; I place my thoughts, worries, problems and thanksgiving before Him.  Then, I sit quietly to hear what He has to say.  Usually,  I come away with some clarity about life, and even if I do not, I come away with a calmer heart.  I come before Him without expectation and accept what the visit with Him offers.  Christ gave so much for me, the least I can do is give time for Him.  I know He will always use it to my benefit.

St. Teresa of Avila said that prayer is an intimate sharing between friends.  The Eucharist and adoration are the means to spend intimate time with Him who loves us and gave us everything.  I know that He is always there waiting and wanting me to visit.

St. John of the Cross recommends against sharing consolations, because they are spiritual gifts God gives uniquely to us.  I understand that, because time before Christ in the Eucharist is a very personal and intimate time.  He comes to engage with each one of us personally.  To share details of any consolation I have received, could cause expectation in others.  All I can say is that we have a standing invitation to visit with the savior of the world!  Nothing but good will come out of that visit.  I urge you to spend time with Him whenever you can.