As I strive to make regular Eucharistic Adoration a part of my spiritual life, I've discovered a wonderful companion book for my visits with Jesus.  The book, entitled Jesus Present Before Me - Meditations for Eucharistic Adoration, was written by Father Peter John Cameron, O.P.

Perhaps it is a sign of my spiritual immaturity that I feel the need for a book or guide when praying in front of the Blessed Sacrament.  After all, shouldn't the grace of being in Jesus' presence be sufficient to keep me engaged?  Sadly, I have found that so many times my mind races in a million different directions and that my prayers become mingled with "to do" lists, blog ideas, and even thoughts of what I will cook for dinner.  Having a book to guide and direct my prayer -- at least as a jumping off point -- helps me to focus my time with Jesus.



So I was very happy to receive a copy of Jesus Present Before Me - Meditations for Eucharistic Adoration for review.  It is indeed the perfect book for Eucharistic Adoration or simply quiet devotional time in your own home.  The book commences with a lovely prayer to begin Adoration.  Next, Father Cameron includes thirty daily Eucharistic meditations for each day of the month.  Each day contains a brief scripture quote, a one page meditation, questions for reflection and a closing prayer.  The length of each day's passage is brief enough to leave ample time for additional quiet prayer during your time with Jesus.  The content of Father Cameron's reflections are so inspiring that you may be tempted to read ahead, but this is the type of book to be savored and enjoyed over time.

At the end of the daily reflections, Father Cameron includes the mysteries of the Rosary, written from a unique Eucharistic perspective.  Additional Eucharistic devotions included in the book are a Eucharistic Colloquy, a Eucharistic Litany based on Sacramentum Caritatis, and a stirring "Way of the Eucharist".

Jesus Present Before Me is presented classically with a faux red leather cover and is the perfect size to tuck inside a purse or coat pocket so that it is always handy.  This little book is changing my perspective on Eucharistic Adoration and opening my heart to new ways of worship.  It would make the perfect gift for someone special in your life or to deepen your own experience of Jesus truly present in the Eucharist.

This review was written as part of the Catholic book Reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on Jesus Present Before Me.