June 3, 2024
“In a world where there is so much noise, so much bewilderment, there is a need for silent adoration of Jesus concealed in the Host. Be assiduous in the prayer of adoration and teach it to the faithful. It is a source of comfort and light, particularly to those who are suffering.”
— Pope Benedict XVI
In all our suffering, whether our pain is from grief or illness or betrayal, the first place we should go is the chapel for Eucharistic Adoration, so we can sit in silence in front of the Blessed Sacrament — Jesus our greatest friend and divine healer. Words are not necessary. He knows your pain so you don’t have to speak, but usually it helps to put it in words. He is always listening, waiting for you to talk and pour out your heart to him. Many parishes have perpetual adoration, so you can visit Jesus any time of the day or night.
Father Sebastian White, O.P., writing in the Magnificat Adoration Companion, said: “Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, whether in a period of public and formal Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament or individually before the tabernacle, even for just a few minutes, is a precious and intimate time of prayer with the Lord. It is a special opportunity for a ‘heart-to-heart’ with the Savior. Through the eyes of faith, we can see that our sufferings are not an obstacle to the love of Jesus, but the very means by which he draws us close to himself, instructs us in the way of trust and humility, and leads us onward to the place where there will be no more tears or sorrow.
“Whether it be a physical illness, a conflict with someone in our life or in our family, the lingering pain and wounds from having been hurt or offended by someone we trusted, sorrow and regret over our own sins or failures, or fear due to uncertainty about the future or how to navigate a difficult situation in our life, or the loss of a loved one —whatever the particular form of suffering, that is, whatever trial or need you are facing at this moment, let it be the occasion to draw closer to the Lord.”
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