At the beginning of this pandemic, I struggled to go to virtual Mass and not have the Sacraments easily accessible. I grappled with not being surrounded by my brothers and sisters in Christ and not being able to hear their voices alongside mine as we proclaimed, “Alleluia!”
I’d love to say I struggled with not receiving the Eucharist, but I didn’t. I chose to focus on what I was able to feast on, the Word of God, versus what I was unable to consume, His precious Body and Blood. Let me tell you, I spiritually devoured the Word and was deeply satisfied.
Saint Paul’s letter to the Hebrews spoke truth to me during the quarantine. “The word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).
Do we believe this? Are we even aware of the numerous moments when we venerate the Word of God at Mass?
The Catechism, as well as Vatican II, teaches, “The Church has always venerated the divine scriptures as she venerated the Body of the Lord, in so far as she never ceases, particularly in the sacred liturgy, to partake of the bread of life and to offer it to the faithful from the one table of the Word of God and the Body of Christ” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 103.)
Veneration of the divine scriptures occurs from the moment of the procession to the kissing of the Book of the Gospels. The Book of the Gospels is lifted high in procession by a deacon at the beginning of Mass. Again, it’s raised from the altar of sacrifice to the ambo as we unite our voices in praise of “Alleluia” before the Gospel proclamation. Then again, when a Bishop blesses his flock, indicating the presence of Christ in his Word.
I will always long to receive the Eucharist and seek to adore Jesus in His most precious Body and Blood in Adoration, but sister, I will always place the Living Word of God on an equal pedestal. God’s Word can satisfy your starving soul, fill the empty recesses of your weary heart, and provide light in the darkness hours. “Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life” (John 6:63c).
God’s Word can satisfy your starving soul. // @socaltriciatClick to tweet
Have you been fed spiritually lately? How can you refocus on being spiritually fed?
Tricia Tembreull is a seasoned ministry professional dedicated to guiding young hearts toward spiritual growth, healing, and the love of Christ. With a background in youth and young adult ministry, Tricia has served in various roles, including as a youth minister, college campus ministry at USC Caruso Catholic Center, and Regional Director for Life Teen International. As a devotions writer for Blessed Is She, she shares scripture reflections that resonate deeply with women of faith. Recognized as a compelling Catholic speaker, Tricia challenges audiences to embrace their faith with authenticity. Additionally, as a spiritual director, she provides compassionate support to those seeking deeper connections with God. Currently serving as the Coordinator of Young Adult Ministry and Evangelization for the Diocese of Orange, Tricia continues to inspire young adults to embrace their faith journey with zeal and purpose, embodying a commitment to spreading the gospel while fostering communities of love.
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