POPE: “ADORATION IS BEING LOST AND WE HAVE TO GET IT BACK”
Kathleen N. Hattrup – published on 09/25/23 Aleteia
Pope Francis urges the faithful to be intercessors, to present to the Lord the “eyes, voices, and questions” of others.
Pope Francis is urging the faithful to get back to adoration, and to use time with Jesus in the Eucharist to intercede for others.
After reflecting on how Jesus’ gaze — he “looks intently at us from head to toe, not to judge, but to lift up those who are lowly” — is shining “in Mary’s eyes,” the Pope turned his attention the other direction: to the gaze of men and women who turn to Jesus.
Mary transmits the longing and need transmitted in the gazes of men and women to her Son, just as she did at Cana, the Pope explained. And we are called to do the same, to “be a voice of intercession for others — men and women for others.”
In this way, the recitation of the Breviary, daily meditation on the Word, the Rosary and every other prayer – I recommend especially that of adoration, for today we have lost the meaning of adoration a little bit and we need to get it back, so I recommend it to you – all these forms of prayer will be crowded with the faces of those whom Providence places on your path. You will bring with you their eyes, voices, and questions to the Eucharistic Table, before the tabernacle, or to the silence of your room, where the Father sees you.”Citing the Book of Tobit, the Holy Father encouraged: “You will be their faithful echo as intercessors, ‘angels on earth,’ that is, messengers, who bring everything ‘before the glory of the Lord’ (Tob 12:12).”
Importance of Time with Jesus in Adoration
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is a Catholic devotion that involves spending time in prayer and contemplation before the Eucharist. Catholics believe that the Eucharist is the real presence of Jesus Christ, body, blood, soul, and divinity. Therefore, adoration is a way to spend time with Jesus in a personal and intimate way.
Five Spiritual Benefits of Adoration
There are many spiritual benefits to spending time with Jesus in adoration. Here are five of the most important:
- Deepens our relationship with Jesus: Adoration is a time to deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ. As we spend time with Him in prayer, we come to know Him better and to love Him more.
- Increases our faith: Adoration helps to increase our faith in the Eucharist. As we gaze upon the Blessed Sacrament, we are reminded of Jesus’ love for us and His sacrifice on the Cross.
- Strengthens us in our spiritual lives: Adoration gives us the strength to resist temptation and to live a holy life. As we receive Jesus’ blessing and grace, we are empowered to follow Him more closely.
- Brings us peace and joy: Adoration is a source of great peace and joy. As we sit in silence before the Blessed Sacrament, we experience His presence and His love. This brings us a deep sense of peace and contentment.
- Unites us with the Church: Adoration unites us with the Church throughout the world. As we adore the Blessed Sacrament, we join with all Catholics in praising and worshiping Jesus Christ.
How to Spend Time in Adoration
There is no right or wrong way to spend time in adoration. However, here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Find a quiet place where you can be alone with Jesus.
- Sit or kneel before the Blessed Sacrament and close your eyes.
- Take a few deep breaths and relax.
- Focus your attention on Jesus and His presence in the Eucharist.
- Talk to Jesus about anything that is on your mind.
- Listen for Jesus to speak to you through the Holy Spirit.
- Simply be present with Jesus and enjoy His presence.
If you are new to adoration, start by spending a few minutes each week in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually increase the amount of time you spend in adoration.
Adoration is a powerful spiritual practice that can transform our lives. If you are looking for a way to deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ and to grow in your faith, I encourage you to make time for adoration.
