Can you imagine what it would have been like for Abraham: as he was tending to his fields like it was any other day; three travelers approached him with an appearance that suggested they were more than ordinary men. He invited them to stay and have something to eat and refresh any weariness from their travels. And it turns out that these men were not men at all, but angels of the Lord, and possibly something even more. Andrei Rublev captured this moment in one of the most famous and recognizable icons of our faith. Entitled the Hospitality of Abraham it has more commonly become known as the icon of the Holy Trinity: Three angels are seated at the table, their faces and expressions identical (as the Holy Trinity is one), yet wearing distinct clothing, identifying the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Can you imagine sitting down at a table and having a conversation with the Holy Trinity?
Perhaps it is easier to imagine Mary, sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening to the words of the Son of God and Word made Flesh. Or think of Martha, running about her daily tasks and the work of hospitality that is necessary to make sure that Jesus and his friends have enough to eat and drink, and even a basin to wash their feet from the dirt and weariness of their travels. Then, the Lord looks at her: Martha, do not trouble your heart over such passing things. But, come and sit. Find comfort, renewal and strength in the words that provide true life; Come and find respite from all of your troubles.
If you can imagine, then you can imagine, hear and see the words that He continues to offer us today through the Blessed Sacrament. The significance and meaning of His Real Presence in the Holy Eucharist is that He says to us: Come, sit with me. Take a respite from your daily worries. Draw close to Me as a friend and sit quietly by my side. Give to Me your troubles, and your desires; give Me the yoke of your burdens and work, and place mine upon your shoulder; If only for a time, for this hour, rest and abide in Me; that I may give you rest and you may be in My company.
Time in adoration, whether the Blessed Sacrament is exposed or in the tabernacle, is time spent like Mary, or Abraham, in the real presence of our Lord. It can be a time of respite; time to leave behind the busyness of families, work and the regular duties of life. In this way, it is an experience of Heaven, in a concrete way. That is, all other things disappear and it becomes a moment between you and God alone.