It’s true that the voice of God is a still, small voice. His is one that comes in the silence, the silence we sometimes fear because it is in that quiet that our heart is laid bare, not only for us to see but for God as well. We forget that he already knows us better than we know ourselves.
Eucharistic adoration is an invitation from the Almighty, the One who created everything out of nothing. It’s an invitation to be in the very presence of a king, our King. Imagine, we sinful, fallen, messy humans are invited, welcomed, and encouraged to be with our Lord and God. It is in this silence that we discover who we truly are. Yes, we are sinners who stumble and lurch through this life, but we are also beloved children of God. We are desired. We are wanted. We are espoused to him. He wants us to bring him this mess because he can heal us.
A few years ago, I interviewed for a job that would have been perfect. I was qualified, and I already knew the community. The interviews went well, and I left feeling optimistic. After days of waiting past the date I expected to hear from them, I learned I did not get the job. I was crushed. My sense of self had become tangled up in getting that position, and the fall was swift, painful, and ugly. Following a torrent of emotion came feelings of shame. I knew I should have trusted in God, and I didn’t. I was just mad.
I’d learned from past disappointments to get my sorry self to Eucharistic adoration. It was there that I was able to begin to find the peace I needed. I was able to hear Jesus’ gentle comfort and encouragement. It was helpful that being with Jesus in adoration had become a regular part of my prayer life because, despite the disappointment and anger, I was able to settle in and listen.
In the beginning, I didn’t know what to do during my time before Jesus in the Eucharist, but as I continued to go, I was able to stay for longer periods of time and enter more deeply into the quiet. I learned the specific way that Jesus talks to me, and I learned to trust his voice. Sitting at the feet of Jesus is an honor we are all invited to enjoy. Like anything else worthy in life, though, it takes practice and patience.
If you are new to Eucharistic adoration, give yourself some grace. Try not to fall into the trap of making excuses for why you cannot stay longer or the trap of shame that you aren’t “better” at it. Ask Jesus to teach you to adore him. If you are there, it is because he invited you and placed it on your heart. He has something he wants to tell you, and he’s willing to teach you to hear him. Perhaps as you read this, you are considering going. That’s Jesus talking to you right now! That stirring in your heart is his quiet voice.
Let your prayer be one of humility, of asking for instruction. I believe it brings the Shepherd great joy when his lambs come to him.
Open your heart, breathe deep, and get ready for a wonderful adventure.
