Ecce Venio

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Ecce Venio

Ecce, Venio.

It’s a Latin phrase meaning ‘Behold, I come.’ A dozen years ago these two words would have had no significant meaning for me. But today they mean far more than the words contained here. That’s because the love of God for me - for all of us - is beyond description. In ancient days the people of Israel would offer sacrifices in the Temple of various animals and grains. But the Psalms beautifully anticipate the most perfect sacrifice: “Holocaust and oblation you sought not. Then said I: Behold, I come.” (Psalm 40) Jesus Christ, the Son of God, took on our flesh and came to offer the sacrifice not of birds or beasts, but of His very self. In this He has made of children of God and heirs of Heaven. But it is not enough to simply open the gates and wait for us. He stays here with us in the Most Holy Eucharist to strengthen us so we can persevere in walking the narrow path to Eternal Life. Christ remains with us in the tabernacles of churches around the world, imprisoned not by chains but by Love. He longs to be with us so that we might be with Him in glory. In His revelations to numerous saints throughout the centuries, He has continually sought out for Himself companions to remain with Him in the Eucharist. Adorers who make a point to spend time with Him, who speak to Him what He first spoke to us: ‘Behold, I come.’ Indeed our offerings may be small in comparison to His, but how He rejoices to see us before Him in the tabernacle or monstrance! This is what I have come to know in the depths of my soul in a place where words fall short. Jesus Christ abides with us. And He delights when we abide in Him. O, how He loves us!