We are bound to render the Holy Eucharist the same adoration and honor due God Himself.
1. It is a most wonderful privilege to have Christ actually present every moment of the day and night.
When the Blessed Sacrament is in the tabernacle, it is covered with a curtain or veil, and a sanctuary lamp is kept burning before it. When we enter or leave the church, we should genuflect on the right knee towards the tabernacle, as a sign of adoration.
2. This is why the tabernacle is the most precious part of a church. Special care should be taken to keep the altar linen clean; in most parishes there are altar societies of women who devote part of their time to the care of altar linen, vestments, etc.
The Holy Father gives us good example. The chapel of the Blessed Sacrament in the Basilica of St. Peter’s is precious, with its unique tabernacle. Dozens of vigil lights burn day and night before Our Lord, as prayers for His people.
3. We can show Jesus our love and gratitude by hearing Holy Mass every day and receiving Holy Communion, by paying Him a visit in the Blessed Sacrament, by attending Benediction, by spending an hour of adoration when the Blessed Sacrament is exposed, and by other devotions.
When we pass by a church where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved, we should bow our heads as a sign of respect, and say a short aspiration in honor of Our Lord; men should raise their hats. If we are not ill-bred enough to pass by a friend without a word or gesture of greeting, shall we be thus ill-bred towards Our Lord!