THE SILENT OFFERING

Divine Appeal Reflection - 168

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 168:  "For the sake of souls, keep silent, as though you are picking a flower for Me. I love you to the point of doing good for the souls of mankind. I want you to be full of indulgence and compassion for lost souls. Take care of them through your prayers."

In Jesus' Divine Appeal 168, our Adorable Jesus emphasizes the profound spiritual value of silence, prayer, and compassion for the salvation of souls. He lovingly invites us to "keep silent, as though you are picking a flower for Me," illustrating how silence is not merely the absence of noise but an act of love and surrender that deepens our relationship with Him and bears fruit for others. This silence becomes a sacred offering, enabling His grace to transform our hearts and fostering a deeper union with Him. Through this, we become co-workers with Jesus in the divine work of intercession for souls (cf. CCC 2634).

The value of silence is evident throughout the spiritual life, where it acts as a channel for encountering God. By comparing our silent acts to picking a flower, Jesus illustrates their gentle and deliberate essence, highlighting the grace and beauty that emerge from a heart fully surrendered to Him. Silence allows us to step away from distractions and enter a space where God's presence becomes tangible. Our Adorable Jesus calls us to this interior stillness, which strengthens our ability to pray effectively for the conversion of souls, offering every moment as a spiritual bouquet to Him.

Jesus exemplified this sacred silence during His Passion. Scripture recounts how, when falsely accused, He chose not to defend Himself, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy: "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth; He was led like a lamb to the slaughter" (cf. Isaiah 53:7). This profound silence was an act of trust and love for the Father’s will, teaching us that silence, embraced with humility, can have salvific power. Our Adorable Jesus asks us to imitate this silence, especially in trials, so we may participate in His redemptive mission

Jesus' exhortation to "be full of indulgence and compassion for lost souls" also demonstrates His unending kindness and desire for us to partake in His redemptive work. He reminds us that every soul is valuable in His eyes, regardless of how wicked they may be (cf. Luke 19:10). Recognizing the intrinsic worth of others is the first step toward compassion, which is then demonstrated through sacrifice and prayer. According to the Catholic Catechism, Jesus Himself begs the Father on behalf of sinners, and He extends an invitation to us to follow suit by performing selfless and devout deeds of love (cf. CCC 2634). We offer great joy to His Sacred Heart and attract innumerable souls to His mercy by embracing prayer, compassion, and silence

Prayer

Our Adorable Jesus, teach us to cherish the profound gift of silence, to offer it as a flower of love for Your glory. Grant us hearts full of compassion for lost souls and guide us in fervent prayer. May our lives reflect Your mercy, drawing souls to Your loving embrace.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.