I’m going to be honest, I’ve been on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster this week. It’s been nearly impossible to finish any of the books I’ve been reading, but one short booklet has grounded me in my faith every time I’ve picked it up during Eucharistic Adoration: The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence.

Brother Lawrence was a Carmelite brother who lived from around 1614-1691 in France, and he’s best known for his deep spirituality and his focus on constant awareness of God’s presence. For that reason alone, his writings make the perfect companion for Adoration, where you are quite literally in the presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

His core belief is simple but powerful: every little thing we do can become prayer. It’s something I’ve found myself reflecting on before as well – every task, no matter how small, can be offered up to God. Cooking dinner, volunteering to help those in need, caring for the elderly… these ordinary moments become meaningful when done with love and intention.

What’s especially interesting is that he didn’t actually write a book himself. His friends gathered together his letters and conversations after his death, creating the compilation we now read today. Centuries later, people are still drawn to it for the same reason: it’s simple, accessible, and doesn’t require a theology degree to understand. It meets you right where you are.

Overall, this small collection of reflections on living a life centered on Christ is perfect for anyone who needs to slow down and step away from the chaos of everyday life. I know I needed it this week, and it’s one I’ll keep bringing with me to my Holy Hours.