When someone wants your attention, they call your name. Then they explain why they need you, explaining what’s so important. One of my all-time favorite prayers is the one we say together just as we prepare to receive Christ’s body and blood at the celebration of the Eucharist.

“Lord,” we call out – now we have his attention. “I am not worthy!” He knows better than we admit how undeserving we genuinely are. Our souls are not pure enough for his presence, but we implore his goodness, his compassion. And we offer him a possible solution – to “say but the word and our souls will be healed,” restored to a state of holiness. It’s all he must do, so simple, so perfect. In the blink of an eye, because he loves us, it is done, his grace is given, our transformation is complete, and our souls are ready to receive him.

We will briefly hold the body of Christ in our hands, maybe even reluctant to consume the host as it is so precious to us. His blood is offered to us, and we relish receiving the cup. Sometimes I wish these moments in the celebration would slow down and we could rest in what is happening to us. We experience a transforming moment in the Eucharist.

One of my favorite authors says grace must be God’s best idea. When we make bad choices and mess up our lives, he is watching and steps up, again and again, to strengthen us, shake us up, and restore us to a state of worthiness.

Do you join in this prayer sincerely feeling the words? This an extraordinary moment for your soul, your relationship with God? Do you truly believe that God will do what you ask? Maybe he will even do more than you imagine. How has his grace changed you?

Let us pray

Lord, what can we give you in return for your loving gift of grace? When times are difficult, we reach for your presence and hold fast to your boundless blessings. We trust you to change and shape us so our lives are eternally altered. Thank you, Lord, for loving us so deeply. Amen.