Everyday Living in Christ is a series of guest posts where we reflect on people’s spiritual desires and struggles as they seek to live Christ more intentionally in their daily life. This post was contributed by Brooke D.
We were created for friendship, for community, for love. Perhaps this is why we desire meaningful connections. I wonder if the allure of keeping in touch with people through modern technology somehow hearkens back to this innate desire to give and receive friendship, understanding, compassion, community and connection.
Despite the connections I have on social media, I have to admit that I can feel lonely and even disconnected from others. It is in the Eucharistic Lord that I have found the ultimate friendship. When I am before Jesus in the Eucharist and when I am at Mass, I realize that though I may feel lonely, I am never alone. The Lord is truly present and waiting for me. ALWAYS.
These are five ways that Jesus in the Eucharist has become my guide:
- I remember that the word “Eucharist” means “thanksgiving.” Have I thanked God today? When I feel lonely, I tend to dwell on what I lack instead of focusing on the gifts that I have been given. It is with a spirit of gratitude that I can overcome any bitterness or jealousy, for I am reminded of God’s goodness.
- In the past, I felt awkward and uncomfortable when giving and receiving the Sign of Peace. I viewed it as a sort of interruption. I didn’t realize how beautiful the Sign of Peace really is. This is the time when we pause to share God’s love with one another. I turn to my neighbor and I offer God’s love, God’s mercy—the very love and mercy that he has given me. What a gift that we share with our brothers and sisters in Christ!
- Scripture tells us that Jesus took the bread, broke it, and gave it to his disciples. As I kneel and sing the Lamb of God, the priest breaks the consecrated Host. I, who am broken, am preparing to receive this broken body of Jesus. And it is in the breaking of the Eucharist that I am made whole.
- We come together as one when we receive Jesus in the Eucharist. Just as I am broken, so are my brothers and sisters. I watch them walk to receive the antidote that is Christ’s Body. I find solace in knowing that we are a family that has come together to share the most beautiful meal. We are made one in the Eucharist.
- As I kneel before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, I like to pray the Litany of Trust. When I feel distant and lonely, I focus on one specific line: “That you will not leave me orphan, that you are present in your Church.” While looking at the Blessed Sacrament, I pray, “Jesus, I trust in you.” I trust that he will never leave me. I am reassured as I hear his promise, “I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
