Dear Diary,
This morning Sister Mary Claire read the meditation about St. John the Baptist, and I’ve been thinking about him all day. He lived in the desert, far away from crowds and noise, and gave his whole heart to God. I never thought of the desert as having caves, but it must have—because how else would he have rested? I like to think St. John had a cave in the desert, kind of like mine. Maybe his was hollowed out in rock, with just enough space for prayer and quiet. That makes me love my secret cave even more.
After chores, Mini and I packed a little lunch and made our way down to the creek. I had a sandwich and tucked in a bit for Mini, plus a carrot for Shaggycoat. Sure enough, he was waiting for us, paws in the mud and eyes bright. I gave him the carrot, and when I pulled out a second one, he took it gently like he was saying thank you. Then he turned and padded back down the creek path toward his lodge, his wet tail brushing the leaves behind him.
Before heading home, I sat on the big rock in front of the grotto with Mini curled beside me, blinking in the sunlight. The water made a soft song, and I thought again about St. John and his cave. He didn’t go to the wilderness to hide—he went there to listen. To prepare hearts for Jesus. Maybe that’s what my cave is for too. Not just to be away from things, but to be near to God. Maybe I can be a little voice in my own wilderness.
Our wet feet picked up a lot of dirt on the walk back, and I had to rinse mine with the tin dipper at the porch. Sister Mary Claire was waiting inside with the a glass of milk and M&M cookies. I told her all about our short picnic and how Shaggycoat took both carrots. She said it sounded like a desert day with blessings.
Dear Jesus,
Thank You for St. John and his cave in the desert. Help me love quiet like he did. Help me prepare my heart for You in all the small ways I can. Bless Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and Shaggycoat too.
Love,
Kathy
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