April is the month dedicated to the Blessed Sacrament. Going to adoration can feel overwhelming and a bit intimidating. But Jesus wants to meet you with open arms, not intimidation.
These next few years we are in the middle of a Eucharistic Revival - use that as an excuse to meet up with Jesus more. Whether it's in adoration or daily Mass, He is waiting for us in the Blessed Sacrament. Here are a few things that can help you when paying Him a visit.
- PREPARE TO SLOW DOWN
If you come prepared to do anything, prepare to slow down. Start off slow - release the tension in your shoulders and take deep breaths. Try meditation if you have a hard time quieting your mind. Leave the stress of the day at the door and stare at Jesus in the Eucharist. Remind yourself you are with the King. - BRING SPIRITUAL MATERIALS - ESPECIALLY SCRIPTURE
After you’ve had a few moments of silence, if you’re not sure where to go now, pull out Scripture. Flip through the pages and see where you land. What book is it? Is there a chapter that sticks out? Is there a word or person that jumps out on the page? What are they saying? What does that mean for you? You can also pull out that saint book or new journal you’ve had on your bookshelf! This is a time to be creative in your prayer. - LEAVE EXPECTATIONS AT THE DOOR
When we hear adoration, we often think of Holy Hours - but your time in front of the Blessed Sacrament can be short and sweet. Even if you only have 10 minutes to pop in in between errands, He’s still here. We don't have to fit a mold or act a certain way in order for Him to love us being there. Just show up. - USE PRAISE & GRATITUDE
Start and end with some simple time praising Jesus. If you're not sure how, just slowly state His name over and over. Jesus. Jesus. Jesus, I trust in You. And at some point, bring in gratitude to your prayer. Thank God for all the blessings in your life. There isn't anything too big or too small. If it seems insignificant, it isn’t. He wants to hear about it. - BE YOURSELF WITH HIM
You don’t have to do anything fancy in adoration. Like any friend, the important thing is we start by showing up. Bring a book, write in your journal, read about a new saint, or just sit and daydream about what heaven might be like. He just wants you to show up as YOU.
