Harvesting The Fruits of Contemplation

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons ) "A saint used to say that we were God-bearers. It is really true because at the moment of receiving the Blessed Eucharist, and as long as the Sacred Species subsist, Jesus Christ is substantially present with His Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity in our body and our soul.  We are thus tabernacles, living ciboria of Jesus Christ. What are You doing, O my Savior, during this quarter of an hour, when You deign to dwell in me; when You are in contact with my body and my soul? I cure you of your spiritual laziness, strive to draw you into My Heart; I set you on fire with flames of love for God and for your brethren.  O mystery of condescension and of divine love! Give me O Jesus, an understanding and relish of it."                                      ...

(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons ) "Before instituting this Sacrament of love, He knew very well to how much scorn and contempt He was exposing Himself. O my Savior, why not remain in heaven after your return there! There, at least, the Angels will love you with a pure and perfect love: but in the Eucharist, the Jews will pierce you again with nails, wicked Christians will receive you unworthily, some without contrition, others without the wish to correct themselves, others perhaps with crime in their hearts.  He knows it: but all that does not hinder His love. “O city of Sion, exclaims the Lord, by the mouth of the prophet Isaiah (xii, 6) cry out, thrill with joy, because your God dwells in the midst of you.” Jesus Christ has chosen for Himself the humiliations and at this price has assured to us forever the happiness and benefit of His presence."                    ...