Sunday Morning Mass

Dear Diary,

This morning Robert picked the three of us up for Church as usual and right on time. It was Sunday morning Mass, so everything felt a little more hushed and special, even before we got there. Sister Mary Claire looked so peaceful, and Mini seemed to know it was Sunday too, because she sat very properly, as if she had her own little Sunday manners tucked inside her corgi heart.

At Mass, Father LeRoy read the Gospel about how much God loved the world. He said we should never hurry past those words, because they are like the whole story of salvation folded into one sentence. God loved us so much that He gave His only Son, not to frighten us away, but to save us and bring us home to Heaven.

Father LeRoy said some people think of God first as someone waiting to condemn them, but Jesus tells us that the Father sent Him because of love. That made me think of the tabernacle, quiet and holy, where Jesus still stays near us. He did not come only once and then leave us all alone. He still remains with us, hidden and patient, because His love has no end.

On the way home, Sister Mary Claire said that belief in Jesus is not just saying words, but trusting Him, loving Him, and trying to live close to Him each day. Robert said that when a person really believes Jesus came to save him, it changes the way he sees everything, even hard things. I thought about that while Mini leaned against me, warm and happy, as if she agreed in her own little way.

This afternoon I kept thinking about the words, “God so loved the world.” That means He loved the whole world, but it also means He loved our little farm, St. Mary’s, Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Father LeRoy, Mini, and even me. It is almost too big to understand, but it makes my heart feel safe.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for coming into the world to save us and not to condemn us. Help me believe in You with my whole heart and stay close to You every day. Please bless Father LeRoy, Robert, Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and all of us at Camp Littlemore tonight. Keep our hearts full of Your love, and bring us safely one day to eternal life with You.




Amen.




Gospel Reading




A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 3:16-18




God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.




The Gospel of the Lord.

The Authority of Jesus

Dear Diary,

Today Robert picked the three of us up for Church as usual and right on time. It was raining, and that was certainly welcome, because the crops are all planted now and thirsty. The fields looked dark and happy, and the rain tapped on Robert’s truck windows all the way to St. Mary’s. Mini sat very pleased between us, as if she thought the rain had come mostly to make the ride more interesting.

When we got to Church, everything felt extra quiet because of the rain. The little drops ran down the windows, and the air smelled fresh and clean. I thought maybe the whole farm was drinking while we were at Holy Mass.

Father LeRoy explained today’s Gospel about the chief priests, scribes, and elders asking Jesus, “By what authority are you doing these things?” Father said they were not asking because they truly wanted to know. They were trying to trap Him. Jesus saw right through them, because He always sees the heart.

Father said Jesus’ authority did not come from men, or from clever words, or from trying to please everybody. His authority came from Heaven, because He is the Son of God. That made me feel very safe. The rain, the crops, the church, the Gospel, and even my own little soul all belong under His authority.

Father LeRoy also said we must be honest with Jesus. The men in the Gospel said, “We do not know,” but it was not a humble kind of not knowing. It was a hiding kind. They were afraid to answer plainly. Father said when we pray, we should never hide from Jesus, because He already knows everything and loves us anyway.

On the way home, Sister Mary Claire said that a soul grows better when it lets Jesus rule it gently. Robert said the crops need rain from Heaven, and we need grace from Heaven. I liked that very much, because it made the wet fields look almost like a lesson.

Mini looked out at the rain and then back at us, and I wondered if she was glad to be dry in the truck. When we got home, the yard was wet, the air was soft, and all the little planted rows seemed to be resting.

Tonight I want Jesus to have authority over my heart. I do not want to hide things from Him or pretend I do not know when I really do. I want to be simple, honest, and obedient, like good ground receiving the rain.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, please rule my heart with Your holy love. Send grace into my soul like rain upon the thirsty fields. Help me to be honest with You, obedient to You, and never afraid to let You lead me. Bless Father LeRoy, Robert, Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and all of us at Camp Littlemore tonight. Amen.

____________________________

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 11:27-33

Jesus and his disciples returned once more to Jerusalem. As he was walking in the temple area, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders approached him and said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things? Or who gave you this authority to do them?” Jesus said to them, “I shall ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Was John’s baptism of heavenly or of human origin? Answer me.” They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ But shall we say, ‘Of human origin’?”—they feared the crowd, for they all thought John really was a prophet. So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” Then Jesus said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

Love,
Kathy

A House of Prayer

Dear Diary, 

Today Robert picked the three of us up for Church as usual and right on time. Mini was ready before anybody, watching the road like she had been appointed to look for Robert’s truck. Sister Mary Claire said Mini knows the sound of it now, and I think she does too, because her little ears always tell on her.

On the way to Church, the morning felt quiet, and I was glad for it. Sometimes the ride to St. Mary’s feels like a little road of getting ready, where the farm things are left behind for a while and my soul has time to think about Jesus.

Father LeRoy preached about today’s Gospel, where Jesus went into the temple and found buying and selling there instead of prayer. Father said Jesus was not angry in a wrong way. He was full of holy zeal because His Father’s house was being treated like a market instead of a sacred place.

Father LeRoy said the church is God’s house, and our souls are meant to be little houses of prayer too. That made me think hard. A church should not be cluttered with noise and wrong things, and maybe my heart should not be either. If my heart is full of fussing, selfishness, grudges, or careless thoughts, then there is not enough quiet room for Jesus.

He also talked about the fig tree that had leaves but no fruit. Father said the tree looked alive, but it had nothing to give. He said our faith must not be only on the outside. It should have fruit, like prayer, kindness, obedience, forgiveness, and trust in God.

On the way home, Sister Mary Claire said the Gospel is strong, but very loving too, because Jesus wants to clean out what keeps us from Him. Robert said sometimes a person needs to straighten up the barn, the shed, or the heart, and the heart is probably the hardest one.

I looked at Mini sitting so content, and I thought she never pretends to be anything but what she is. She loves, follows, waits, and trusts. I wish my soul could be that simple.

Tonight I want to ask Jesus to make my heart more like a little chapel. I want Him to clear away what does not belong there, so there will be room for prayer. I also want to forgive quickly, because Jesus said when we stand to pray, we must forgive anyone we have a grievance against.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, please make my heart a quiet house of prayer. Take away what does not belong there, and help me bear good fruit for You. Teach me to pray with faith, forgive with love, and trust You without doubting. Bless Father LeRoy, Robert, Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and all of us at Camp Littlemore tonight. Amen.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 11:11-26

Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple area. He looked around at everything and, since it was already late, went out to Bethany with the Twelve.

The next day as they were leaving Bethany he was hungry. Seeing from a distance a fig tree in leaf, he went over to see if he could find anything on it. When he reached it he found nothing but leaves; it was not the time for figs. And he said to it in reply, “May no one ever eat of your fruit again!” And his disciples heard it.

They came to Jerusalem, and on entering the temple area he began to drive out those selling and buying there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves. He did not permit anyone to carry anything through the temple area. Then he taught them saying, “Is it not written:

My house shall be called a house of prayer for all ­peoples?/ But you have made it a den of thieves.”

The chief priests and the scribes came to hear of it and were seeking a way to put him to death, yet they feared him because the whole crowd was astonished at his teaching. When evening came, they went out of the city.

Early in the morning, as they were walking along, they saw the fig tree withered to its roots. Peter remembered and said to him, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree that you cursed has withered.” Jesus said to them in reply, “Have faith in God. Amen, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’

Take Courage; Jesus Is Calling You

Dear Diary,

Today Robert picked the three of us up for Church as usual and right on time. Mini was ready before anybody, standing like she had important business at St. Mary’s. Sister Mary Claire smiled at her and said maybe Mini understands more than we think, especially when there is a ride with Robert and a quiet pew waiting.

On the way to Church, I kept thinking about how the road seems so familiar now. The same fields, the same fences, the same turns, and then St. Mary’s waiting there like a safe little place for souls. I was glad we were going to Holy Mass.

Father LeRoy preached about the blind man Bartimaeus, who sat by the roadside begging. When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus was passing by, he cried out, “Jesus, son of David, have pity on me.” Some people told him to be quiet, but he would not stop. Father LeRoy said that is one of the most beautiful things about him. He knew he needed Jesus, and he was not ashamed to call out.

Father said sometimes a soul can be a little blind too, even if its eyes work. We can fail to see what God wants, or fail to see our own faults, or fail to see how close Jesus really is. But Jesus never walks past a poor soul that calls to Him with faith.

I liked the part where Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” Then the people said, “Take courage; get up, Jesus is calling you.” Father LeRoy said those words are for us too. Every time we go to prayer, every time we go to Confession, every time we come to Holy Mass, it is like Jesus is calling us closer.

On the way home, Sister Mary Claire said Bartimaeus threw aside his cloak and sprang up because he did not want anything to hold him back from Jesus. Robert said that was real faith, not just sitting and hoping, but getting up when the Lord called.

I looked down at Mini, sitting so pleased with herself, and I thought how quickly she comes when she hears my voice. Maybe I should come that quickly when Jesus calls me in my heart.

Tonight I want to remember Bartimaeus. He began the morning blind by the roadside, and he ended by following Jesus on the way. That is what I want too—not just to ask for help, but to follow Him after He helps me.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, please have pity on me too. Help me to see what is good, what is true, and what You want from me. When You call me, help me to get up quickly and follow You with a faithful heart. Bless Father LeRoy, Robert, Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and all of us at Camp Littlemore tonight. Amen.

_____________________________________________________________________

 
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 10:46-52

As Jesus was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a sizable crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind man, the son of Timaeus, sat by the roadside begging. On hearing that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, son of David, have pity on me.” And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he kept calling out all the more, “Son of David, have pity on me.” Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” So they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take courage; get up, Jesus is calling you.” He threw aside his cloak, sprang up, and came to Jesus. Jesus said to him in reply, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man replied to him, “Master, I want to see.” Jesus told him, “Go your way; your faith has saved you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way.

The Gospel of the Lord.

Love,
Kathy

The Place Nearest to Jesus

Dear Diary,

Today Robert picked us up as usual and right on time for Holy Mass. Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and I were all ready when he came. The morning was quiet and fresh, and Mini acted as if she had important church business of her own.

At Mass, Father LeRoy read the Gospel about Jesus walking ahead of His disciples on the road to Jerusalem. Father said Jesus knew what was waiting for Him there. He knew He would suffer, be mocked, and die, but He kept going because He loved us so much.

Father said James and John wanted places close to Jesus in glory, but they did not understand yet that being close to Jesus also means staying close to Him when things are hard. That made me think. Sometimes I want to be near Jesus, but I do not always like the little crosses He sends.

Then Father LeRoy said something I liked very much. He said Jesus teaches us that the greatest person is not the one who gets the best place, but the one who serves. In Jesus’ kingdom, love is humble. It helps quietly. It does not need to be praised.

On the way home, Sister Mary Claire said that little acts of service count very much with God. Carrying something for someone, being patient, helping without complaining, or giving up our own way can all be little gifts to Jesus.

This afternoon I tried to remember that while doing my chores. I thought maybe being near Jesus can happen right in ordinary places — by the chicken coop, in the kitchen, in the truck, or even beside Mini when she wants attention.

Tonight I keep thinking of Jesus walking ahead. He was not leaving His disciples behind. He was leading them. I want to follow Him too, even when the road is not the easy one.
Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus,
please help me to follow You
with a humble and loving heart.

Teach me not to seek the first place,
but the place closest to You.

Help me to serve quietly,
to be patient with little crosses,
and to love without needing praise.

Please bless Father LeRoy, Robert, Sister Mary Claire, Mini,
and all of us at Camp Littlemore tonight.

Keep us near Your Sacred Heart
and lead us safely on Your road.

Amen.

Love,
Kathy

_________________________

A Reading from the Holy Gospel According to Mark 10:32-45

At that time, they were in the way going up to Jerusalem: and Jesus went before them, and they were astonished: and following were afraid. And taking again the twelve, he began to tell them the things that should befall him.

Saying: Behold we go up to Jerusalem, and the Son of man shall be betrayed to the chief priests, and to the scribes, and ancients, and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles.

And they shall mock him, and spit on him, and scourge him, and kill him: and the third day he shall rise again.

And James and John the sons of Zebedee come to him, saying: Master, we desire that whatsoever we shall ask, thou wouldst do it for us.

But he said to them: What would you that I should do for you?

And they said: Grant to us, that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory.

And Jesus said to them: You know not what you ask. Can you drink of the chalice that I drink of; or be baptized with the baptism wherewith I am baptized?

But they said to him: We can. And Jesus saith to them: You shall indeed drink of the chalice that I drink of; and with the baptism wherewith I am baptized you shall be baptized.

But to sit on my right hand, or on my left, is not mine to give to you, but to them for whom it is prepared.

And the ten hearing it, began to be much displeased at James and John.

But Jesus calling them, saith to them: You know that they who seem to rule over the Gentiles, lord it over them: and their princes have power over them.

But it is not so among you: but whosoever will be greater, shall be your minister.

And whosoever will be first among you, shall be the servant of all.

For the Son of man also is not come to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a redemption for many.

The Voice of the Shepherd

Dear Diary,

Today Robert picked the three of us up for Holy Mass at St. Mary’s as usual and right on time. Mini was ready before anybody, and she acted as if she had been appointed to make sure none of us missed Church. Sister Mary Claire had my missal and her prayer book tucked safely under her arm, and I had been thinking all morning about the little Morning Offering she translated from the 1776 German prayer book.

I started praying it this morning, and it felt very special to know that Catholics were praying from that little book so long ago, before our farm, before St. Mary’s, and before anybody ever knew there would be a Camp Littlemore. Sister Mary Claire does not have each day finished yet, but she hopes to have them done by the end of the week. I am glad, because I like beginning the day by giving everything to Jesus before the day even has a chance to get tangled.

At Mass, Father LeRoy read the Gospel about the sheepfold and the Good Shepherd’s voice. He explained that Jesus is not only the Shepherd who calls His sheep by name, but also the Gate through which the sheep must enter if they want to be safe. Father said that a sheep knows the voice of the one who loves it, feeds it, and protects it. But a strange voice makes the sheep afraid, because it does not belong to love.

I looked down at Mini under the pew when Father said that. Mini knows our voices exactly. She can be sound asleep, but if Sister Mary Claire says her name softly, one ear comes up. If I call her, she comes trotting as if she has been waiting for me all day. But if a stranger calls her too loudly, she looks back at us first, as if to ask, “Is this all right?” That helped me understand the Gospel a little better.

Father LeRoy said the world has many voices. Some voices want to pull us away from prayer, from Holy Mass, from obedience, from kindness, and from Jesus. But the voice of Jesus does not push or trick us. His voice calls us by name and leads us to green pasture, which Father said means grace, truth, peace, and life in our souls.

On the ride home, Sister Mary Claire said the Morning Offering is one way to begin the day by entering through the right Gate. She said when we offer Jesus our prayers, works, joys, and sufferings, we are saying, “Lord, lead me today. I want to hear Your voice first.”

I thought about that when we got back to Camp Littlemore. The farm was quiet, and even the ordinary things seemed to belong to God—the house, the chickens, the road to St. Mary’s, Robert’s faithful pickup, Sister’s prayer book, and Mini’s little paws pattering along beside us. I want Jesus to be the first voice I listen to in the morning and the last voice I remember at night.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, my Good Shepherd,
thank You for calling me by name.
Help me to know Your voice
and not follow any voice that leads me away from You.
Let my Morning Offering help me give the whole day to You,
and keep Sister Mary Claire safe as she finishes the prayers
from the old German book.
Please guard Robert, Father LeRoy, Sister Mary Claire, Mini,
and all of us at Camp Littlemore tonight.
Please watch over Indian Creek,
Shaggycoat in his beaver lodge,
the opossums, raccoons, and all the baby critters
hidden safely down there in the dark.
Lead us through Your holy Gate
and give us the life You came to bring.
Amen.

Love,
Kathy

__________________________

 
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 10:1-10

Jesus said: “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever does not enter a sheepfold through the gate but climbs over elsewhere is a thief and a robber. But whoever enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as the shepherd calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice. But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers.”

Although Jesus used this figure of speech, the Pharisees did not realize what he was trying to tell them.

So Jesus said again, “Amen, amen, I say to you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture.

A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

Mary, Mother of the Church

 

Dear Diary,

Today began with Holy Mass at St. Mary’s for the feast of Mary, Mother of the Church. Robert picked us up as usual and right on time, and Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and I all rode together through the soft May morning. The trees were full of leaves, and everything looked washed and gentle after Pentecost, as if the Holy Ghost had breathed over the farm and left it quiet and holy.

At Mass, Father LeRoy read the Gospel about Our Lady standing by the Cross of Jesus. I always feel very still inside when I hear that reading. Jesus was suffering so much, but He still thought of His Mother and of us. He said to Mary, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then He said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” Father LeRoy said that at that moment, Jesus gave Mary to the Church as Mother. She was not only the Mother of Jesus, but also the Mother of all who belong to Him.

Father said that the Church was born from the pierced side of Jesus, when Blood and water flowed out. Sister Mary Claire explained afterward that the Blood reminds us of the Holy Eucharist, and the water reminds us of Baptism. That made me think of the little spring beginning from the rock wall in the  cave and flowing into the Indian Creek. Only this was far holier, because it came from the Heart of Jesus.

After we came home, I went out to my little garage getaway in the grove. Mini came with me, of course, trotting ahead as always. The garage still looked like a church from yesterday, with flowers and holy things placed about so carefully. It was still only our old garage, with weathered boards and a country smell, but somehow it felt like St. Mary’s had lent it a bit of its quietness for the day.

I knelt there with Mini close beside me, and my imagination began working before I could stop it. I pictured the old garage not as a garage at all, but as a tiny chapel hidden inside the grove. The Blessed Mother stood near the altar, not far away like someone in a picture, but near enough to be our Mother. Around her were children kneeling quietly, like little members of the Church. I imagined myself  being one of them, and Mini sitting as still as she could, almost like she knew this was a motherly feast and not a running-around feast.

Then I thought about St. John taking Mary into his home. I wondered what it would have felt like to hear Jesus say, “Behold, your mother.” If Jesus said that to me, I think I would want to make the whole house ready for her. I would sweep the floor, put flowers on the table, and try not to leave my books everywhere. But Sister Mary Claire said Mary does not only want a room in our house. She wants a place in our hearts.

So I asked myself if there is room for Mary in my heart. Not just a little corner for when I remember, but a real place, like St. John gave her. I think that is what this feast means for me. Jesus gives us His own Mother, and we are supposed to take her home with love.

Mini leaned against me while I prayed, and I put my arm around her. The garage was very quiet. The flowers outside nodded in the breeze, and the old boards creaked a little, as if even the garage was listening. I thought of Jesus on the Cross, giving everything, even His Mother, and I felt very small and very loved.

Tonight I am going to remember that I am not motherless in the Church. Mary is my Mother because Jesus said so. And if He gave her to us from the Cross, then He must want us to trust her very much.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for giving us Your Mother. to guard over Your Church, please take me into your care and help me love Jesus with a faithful heart. Watch over Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Mini, and all of us here. Amen.

Love,
Kathy

__________________________________

A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 19:25-34

Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his ­mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala.

When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.”

Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.”

And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.

After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I thirst.”

There was a vessel filled with common wine.

So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth.

When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.”

And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit.

Now since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath, for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and they be taken down.

So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus.

But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately Blood and water flowed out.

The Gospel of the Lord.

The Feast of Pentecost

 

Dear Diary,

Today began with Holy Mass at St. Mary’s for the Feast of Pentecost. Robert picked us up as usual and right on time, and Mini came along happily, sitting close as if she knew it was a great feast day. The morning was soft and bright, with May flowers everywhere and the trees in the grove looking fresh and full. I kept thinking that even the blossoms looked like little flames, though gentle ones.

At Mass, Father LeRoy read the Gospel about the disciples being shut inside with the doors locked because they were afraid. Then Jesus came and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” Father LeRoy said that Jesus did not wait until they were brave before He came to them. He came right into their fear and gave them peace. Then He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” Father said the Holy Spirit comes quietly and strongly, and He makes frightened hearts brave.

After Mass, when we came home, I could not stop thinking about the locked room. I walked out to the old garage in the grove, and Mini came along, of course. The garage is not locked like the disciples’ room was, but it is quiet and tucked away, and sometimes it feels like a little room God saved for prayer. The peeling white boards looked old and humble, and the flowers around it made it seem like Heaven had leaned down close to earth.

When I stood in the doorway, my imagination became very busy. I pictured the garage full of children dressed like little apostles, kneeling around Our Lady. Mary was so still and prayerful in the middle, like she knew how to wait for God better than anyone. Above them was the Holy Ghost, like a white dove, and bright golden light came down through the air. Little flames rested above their heads, but they were gentle flames, not scary ones. They were like love made visible.

Mini sat beside me and looked into the garage as if she could see it too. Her ears were perked up, and she was very quiet. I whispered, “Peace be with you,” because that is what Jesus said first. I think He knew peace had to come before courage. Then I thought of how He sent the apostles out after giving them the Holy Spirit. He did not just comfort them so they could stay hidden. He comforted them so they could go.

I wondered if Pentecost can happen in small ways at Camp Littlemore too. Maybe the Holy Spirit helps me tell the truth when I am scared, pray when I am distracted, be kind when I would rather be cross, and love Jesus even when I cannot see Him with my eyes. Maybe He can make a little farm girl brave, just like He made the apostles brave.

This evening, I am going to remember that Jesus can come through locked doors. He can come through worried thoughts, shy feelings, and even places in my heart I keep closed. And when He comes, He still says, “Peace be with you.”

Evening Prayer

Dear Holy Spirit, please come into my heart like You came at Pentecost. Give me peace when I am afraid, courage when I am weak, and love for Jesus in everything I do. Stay with Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Mini, and all of us at Camp Littlemore. Amen.

Love,
Kathy

______________________

A reading from
the holy Gospel according to John 20:19-23

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

Saturday — “You Follow Me

 

Dear Diary,

Today began with Robert picking the three of us up for Church as usual and right on time. Another inch of rain had fallen during the night, and Camp Littlemore was soaked through. The yard was soft, the ditches were full, the road to St. Mary’s was muddy and it was still raining. Mini came along happily, though I think she already knew the steep cave path would not be a possibility today.

On the ride to Mass, the fields looked dark and rich from all the rain. Robert drove carefully, and I thought how rain can be both a blessing and a bother. It helps everything grow, but it can also keep a girl and her Corgi from visiting a very beloved cave.

At Mass, Father LeRoy read the Gospel about St. Peter asking Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” Father said Peter had just been told to follow Jesus, but then he looked over at John and wondered about someone else’s road. Jesus answered, “What concern is it of yours? You follow me.”

Father LeRoy explained that Jesus was not telling Peter to stop caring about John. He was teaching him not to compare his calling with another person’s. Each soul has its own path with Jesus. Some teach, some pray, some serve quietly, and some write down what they have seen, like St. John. Father said we can waste too much time looking sideways, when Jesus is standing before us saying, “You follow Me.”

That made me feel a little corrected inside. Sometimes I wonder why Sister Mary Claire understands holy things faster than I do. But today I thought Jesus is not asking me to be Sister Mary Claire. He is asking me to be Kathy, with my own little heart, my own prayers, my own chores, and Mini beside me.

After Mass, Robert drove us home through the wet countryside. On the way up to the house, Mini trotted ahead of us as if she had been appointed leader of the pack. Sister Mary Claire laughed and said, “Look, Kathy, Mini is giving us a little Gospel lesson.” Mini led the way with her wet little paws and soaked up fur coat while Sister Mary Claire and I followed behind. It made me smile, because we were all following someone, and it reminded me that our true Leader is Jesus.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus,
help me not to compare my road with anyone else’s.
Help me hear Your gentle words,
“You follow Me.”
Let me follow You in my prayers,
my chores,
and my little joys.
Keep Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Mini, and me close to You tonight.
Amen.

Love,
Kathy

______________________

Gospel Reading

Peter turned and saw the disciple following whom Jesus loved,
the one who had also reclined upon his chest during the supper
and had said, “Master, who is the one who will betray you?”
When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about him?”
Jesus said to him, “What if I want him to remain until I come?
What concern is it of yours?
You follow me.”

So the word spread among the brothers that that disciple would not die.
But Jesus had not told him that he would not die,
just “What if I want him to remain until I come?
What concern is it of yours?”

It is this disciple who testifies to these things
and has written them, and we know that his testimony is true.
There are also many other things that Jesus did,
but if these were to be described individually,
I do not think the whole world would contain the books
that would be written.

“Feed My Lambs”

Dear Diary

This morning Robert picked Sister, Mini and me up for Holy Mass. The morning felt quiet and prayerful, like the whole day was waiting for the Gospel.

At Mass, Father LeRoy read the Gospel about Jesus asking Saint Peter, “Do you love me?” He asked him three times, and each time Peter told Him yes. Then Jesus said, “Feed my lambs,” and “Tend my sheep,” and “Feed my sheep.”

Father LeRoy explained it so kindly that I could almost see the morning by the sea, with Jesus standing near the fire after breakfast, looking at poor Saint Peter with such mercy. Peter had denied Him three times, and now Jesus let him say three times that he loved Him. Father LeRoy said Jesus was not trying to hurt Peter’s heart. He was healing it. Jesus was giving Peter his work back again.

Then Father LeRoy looked around the church and said, “Every one of us must answer that same question in our own way. Jesus asks, ‘Do you love Me?’ And if we say yes, He gives us someone to care for.”

I thought about that a long time.

On the way home from Mass, Robert said that feeding sheep does not always mean standing in a pasture with a bucket. Sometimes it means helping somebody’s soul not go hungry.

Sister Mary Claire said, “Kathy, lambs are the little ones, the weak ones, and the ones who need gentleness. Jesus never asks love to sit still. Love always becomes care.”

That stayed in my mind all afternoon.

After dinner, I walked in back of the house to the old garage in the grove for a little while. Robert had fixed it up for me as a quick getaway, and it is one of the dearest places on the farm now. It is not fancy, but it feels holy to me. The old wooden walls hold the warmth from the stove, and the little altar table has flowers, a crucifix, and a candle and that is exactly how I want the place to be.

Mini trotted behind me through the grove and then hopped up near the bed as soon as we got inside. I had meant to tell her to keep off, but she curled herself into a little loaf and fell asleep almost at once. She looked so peaceful that I decided she could stay. Maybe tending sheep sometimes means letting a tired little corgi sleep where she feels safe.

I knelt at the kneeler with my rosary in my hands. The stove crackled softly, and the lantern made the whole garage glow golden.

I told Jesus that I do love Him, though not as much as I ought. I told Him I wanted to say it three times like Saint Peter, because sometimes my heart needs healing too.

“Dear Jesus, You know that I love You.”

Then I said it again.

“Dear Jesus, You know that I love You.”

And then a third time, very quietly.

“Dear Jesus, You know everything. You know that I love You.”

After that, I tried to think of who His lambs might be in my own little life. Maybe Mini, who trusts me. Maybe Omelette and the hens, who need feeding and fresh straw. Maybe the people who read the Gospel sheets. Maybe someone at church who feels lonely. Maybe even Sister Mary Claire sometimes, though she seems much more like a shepherd than a lamb.

I think Jesus was telling me that if I love Him, I must be kind where He has placed me. I must feed what is hungry, comfort what is tired, and help what is little. I cannot preach like Father LeRoy, but I can love Jesus in small farm-girl ways.

When I was finished praying, I looked at Mini asleep by the bed, and the whole room felt like a little answer to the Gospel. Jesus had asked Peter to follow Him. Maybe today He asked me too, right here in the old garage, with the stove warm, the candle burning, and Mini breathing softly in her sleep.

I hope I always say yes.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus,
You asked Saint Peter, “Do you love Me?”
Please ask my heart the same question every day.
Help me to love You by caring for Your little lambs,
by being gentle, faithful, and kind,
and by following You wherever You lead me.
Amen.

Love,
Kathy
Gospel Reading

Feed my lambs, feed my sheep.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 21:15-19

After Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples and eaten breakfast with them, he said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” Simon Peter answered him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He then said to Simon Peter a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Simon Peter answered him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was distressed that he had said to him a third time, “Do you love me?” and he said, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” He said this signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when he had said this, he said to him, “Follow me.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

Ready for More Rain

Dear Diary

Today is Thursday, May 21st, and this morning Robert picked us up at the mailbox as usual and right on time. Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and I were all ready, and the road still looked wet from the nice rain we had. The sky was gray again, and it looked like more rain was coming before long, so Sister Mary Claire made sure we had our raincoats with us. Mine was buttoned up, and Mini had her little place ready in the truck where she could stay dry.

Robert said the rain would make the fields green in a hurry, and Sister Mary Claire smiled and said that grace can be like that too. When God sends it, quiet little places in the soul can begin growing again before we hardly notice.

On the way to St. Mary’s, we talked about today’s Gospel reading because Sister Mary Claire and I had read it ahead of time. Jesus was praying for His disciples, but not only for them. He was praying for everyone who would believe in Him later. That means He was praying for us too. I liked thinking about that as we rode along the wet country road, watching the clouds gather low over the fields.

At Mass, Father LeRoy explained the Gospel in his homily. He said Jesus was praying that all who believe in Him would be one, just as He and the Father are one. Father said that this does not mean we all have the same work to do or the same place in life. It means we are meant to belong to God together, with love and peace in our hearts.

Then Father LeRoy said something I kept thinking about. He said, “Our Lord does not forget the little ones who will come after. He sees them, He knows them, and He prays for them before they even know how much they need Him.”

That made me feel very safe. Jesus prayed for His apostles long ago, but He also prayed for little girls in Iowa, and nuns, and kind neighbors named Robert, and all the people who come to Him with faith. He even knows about our wet fields, our raincoats, our little mailbox, and our quiet ride to church.

After Mass, the air felt heavy with more rain. Robert said we might get another good shower by evening, and I hoped the fields would drink it all in. I thought about Father LeRoy’s words and how Jesus wants our hearts to grow together in His love. The rain helps the farm grow, but prayer helps the heart stay faithful.

Tonight, Sister Mary Claire and I said our prayers quietly while the rain began tapping again. Mini settled herself nearby, glad to be warm and dry. I thanked Jesus for the rain, for the Gospel, for Robert’s kindness, for Father LeRoy’s homily, and for the way Our Lord prayed for us before we were even born.
Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus,
thank You for praying for us
and for keeping us close to Your Heart.
Make our hearts gentle, faithful, and united in Your love.
Help us grow in grace each day,
and keep us safe beneath Your care.

Amen.

Love,
Kathy

__________________________

Gospel Reading

A reading from
the holy Gospel according to John 17:20-26

Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed saying:
“I pray not only for these,
but also for those who will believe in me through their word,
so that they may all be one,
as you, Father, are in me and I in you,
that they also may be in us,
that the world may believe that you sent me.

And I have given them the glory you gave me,
so that they may be one, as we are one,
I in them and you in me,
that they may be brought to perfection as one,
that the world may know that you sent me,
and that you loved them even as you loved me.

Father, they are your gift to me.
I wish that where I am they also may be with me,
that they may see my glory that you gave me,
because you loved me before the foundation of the world.

Righteous Father, the world also does not know you,
but I know you, and they know that you sent me.
I made known to them your name
and I will make it known,
that the love with which you loved me
may be in them and I in them.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

Kept in Thy Name

Old Morning Prayer

Dear Diary,

Today is Wednesday, and Robert picked us up as usual and right on time. Sister Mary Claire and I were ready at the mailbox, and Mini came along too, looking so pretty and pleased with herself, as if going to Holy Mass was her special duty. She settled in the pickup very nicely, and I felt glad having all of us together on the road to St. Mary’s.

At Mass, the Gospel was from Saint John, where Jesus lifted His eyes to Heaven and prayed to His Father for His disciples. Father LeRoy said this was one of the most tender parts of the Gospel, because Jesus was not only teaching us, but praying for us. He said Jesus knew His friends would have to live in a world that did not always love what was holy, and so He asked His Father to keep them safe in His name.

Father LeRoy explained that Jesus did not ask the Father to take His disciples out of the world. That part stayed with me. Father said we still have chores to do, roads to travel, people to love, and duties to finish. We are not meant to hide away from everything hard. But we are meant to belong to God while we are here.

He said when Jesus prayed, “Consecrate them in the truth,” He was asking that His disciples be made holy by God’s own truth. Father LeRoy said truth is not just a lesson in a book. Truth is what keeps the soul straight and safe. It is like a good fence around a field, or like Sister Mary Claire’s hand guiding me when I am not sure where to step.

On the way home, Robert said it was a comforting thing to think of Jesus praying for His own. Sister Mary Claire said Jesus is still praying for us, and that when we feel weak or worried, we should remember that we are kept in His Father’s name. Mini looked out the window for a while, and then rested quietly, as if she knew the ride home was peaceful.

Tonight, I am thinking about how Jesus loves us so much that He prayed for us before He suffered. He wanted us guarded from evil. He wanted us to have His joy. He wanted us to be holy and true.

I hope I can remember that tomorrow when I do my chores, speak my words, and walk around Camp Littlemore. I want to belong to Jesus, even while I am still living in this world.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, keep me in Thy holy name. Guard Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Mini, and all those I love. Help me to live in Thy truth and belong to Thee always. Amen.

Love, Kathy

________________________________________

Gospel Reading

A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 17:11b-19

Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed, saying:

“Holy Father, keep them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one just as we are one.

When I was with them I protected them in your name that you gave me, and I guarded them, and none of them was lost except the son of destruction, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled.

But now I am coming to you. I speak this in the world so that they may share my joy completely.

I gave them your word, and the world hated them, because they do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world.

I do not ask that you take them out of the world but that you keep them from the Evil One.

They do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world.

Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth.

As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world.

And I consecrate myself for them, so that they also may be consecrated in truth.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

Jesus Prayed for Us

The Apostles Creed

Dear Diary,

This morning Robert picked us up at the mailbox as usual and right on time. Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and I were all ready for the ride to St. Mary’s.

The fields looked fresh and green as we drove along the gravel road. The morning was quiet, and I kept thinking about today’s Gospel from St. John. It was the beautiful prayer of Jesus, when He raised His eyes to Heaven and spoke to His Father.

At Mass, Father LeRoy explained that this Gospel lets us listen to the prayer of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. He said Jesus was close to His suffering, but He was not thinking only about Himself. He was thinking about the ones the Father had given Him. He was praying for His disciples.

Father LeRoy said, “Jesus prayed for His disciples, and He still prays for those who belong to Him.” That made me feel deeply loved, and also very safe. It is a wonderful thing to think that Jesus knows us, loves us, and prays for us.

Then Father LeRoy explained the words, “Now this is eternal life, that they should know You, the only true God, and the one whom You sent, Jesus Christ.” He said eternal life is not only something far away in Heaven. It begins in the soul when we begin to know and love God. Every prayer, every Mass, every Gospel reading, and every little act of obedience helps us know Him more.

Father LeRoy also said that Jesus glorified the Father by finishing the work He was given to do. That made me think about our own daily duties. God gives each person work to do. Some work looks important, and some work looks very small, but if it is done for God, it matters. Helping Sister Mary Claire, caring for Mini, doing my chores, listening carefully at Mass, and trying to be good are all little works I can offer to Jesus.

On the ride home, Robert said he liked the part where Jesus said, “I pray for them.” Sister Mary Claire said those words are like a warm shelter for the soul. Mini sat close, and the road home seemed peaceful.

Tonight I am glad that Jesus prayed for His disciples before He went to the Father. I am glad He does not forget us while we are still in the world. I want to belong to Him more and more, and I want to keep His word like His disciples did.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for praying for us. Help me know You better, love You more, and do the little work You give me each day. Keep Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Mini, and me close to Your Sacred Heart. Amen.

Love,
Kathy

________

A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 17:1-11a

Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you, just as you gave him authority over all people, so that your son may give eternal life to all you gave him.

Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.

I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do.

Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began.

“I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world. They belonged to you, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word.

Now they know that everything you gave me is from you, because the words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them and truly understood that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me.

I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours, and everything of mine is yours and everything of yours is mine, and I have been glorified in them.

And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you.

The Gospel of the Lord.

Faith, Family, Farm, and Courage

Kathy's Latest Prayer

 

Dear Diary,

Today felt like one of those golden days when the farm itself seems to be saying its prayers.

The sun was warm and gentle, and the light fell across the barn and fence in such a pretty way that everything looked almost like a holy picture. I wore my overalls today, and Mini let me hold her for a little while by the old farm sign while Sister took our photo. Mini looked so proud and happy, with her red and white coat shining in the light. I held her close, and it made me think how good God is to give us a home, a family, animals to love, and faith to keep us brave.

Robert picked us up as usual and right on time, and we went to St. Mary’s for Holy Mass. Mini was very good, and Sister Mary Claire smiled at me when she saw how carefully I kept her settled. The church was quiet and peaceful, and I was glad to be there.

The Gospel today was from St. John, where Jesus told His disciples that they would all be scattered and would leave Him alone. That part made my heart feel sad. I thought of Jesus being so kind to them, and still knowing they would run away when things became frightening.

Father LeRoy explained it very gently in his homily. He said the disciples thought they were very strong when they said they believed. They really did love Jesus, but they did not yet know how weak they could be when trouble came. Father said Jesus was not trying to shame them. He was telling them the truth so they would not despair later. Even when they failed, He still loved them.

Then Father LeRoy said something I liked very much. He said, “Jesus did not say, ‘You will have no trouble.’ He said, ‘In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”

That made me think of our farm sign: Faith Family Farm. Faith does not mean that everything will always be easy. Family does not mean nobody ever feels afraid or tired. Farm life certainly does not mean there is no trouble, because there are storms, mud, sick animals, broken fences, and days when chores feel too big. But faith means Jesus is with us through it all. Family means we help one another keep going. And the farm teaches us courage every day, because we must rise again in the morning and do what God gives us to do.

Father LeRoy said Jesus was not alone because the Father was with Him. Then he said that when we belong to Jesus, we are never truly alone either. Even if everybody else misunderstands us, even if our courage feels small, even if our hearts tremble, God is still with us.

After Mass, I kept thinking about Mini in my arms by the sign. She trusts me so completely. She does not understand every trouble, but she knows she is loved. I think Jesus wants me to trust Him that way. I do not have to understand everything. I just have to stay close.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, when trouble comes, help me not to be afraid. Keep me close to You, close to my family, and faithful in the little duties of farm life. Thank You for Mini, for Sister Mary Claire, for Robert, for St. Mary’s, and for Father LeRoy’s good words today. Please help me remember that You have conquered the world. Amen.

Love,
Kathy

____________

Today's reading from the holy Gospel according to John 16:29-33

The disciples said to Jesus, “Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure of speech. Now we realize that you know everything and that you do not need to have anyone question you. Because of this we believe that you came from God.”

Jesus answered them, “Do you believe now? Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone. But I am not alone, because the Father is with me.

I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

With You Always

Click for The Sunday Sermon by Bishop Robert Barron

Dear Diary,

Today was a beautiful May day at Camp Littlemore. The corn is coming up green in the fields, and my new Ford tractor still feels almost too wonderful to be mine. I like sitting up high on it and seeing the bridge, the creek, the fences, and the road that leads back home.

Robert picked us up as usual and right on time. Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and I rode with him to St. Mary’s. Mini sat close and looked very pleased, as if the new Ford tractor belonged partly to her too.

At Mass, Father LeRoy read the Gospel about the eleven disciples going to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him, but some doubted. Father LeRoy said that part is very comforting, because Jesus still came close to them. He did not send them away because their hearts were not perfect yet.

Father said Jesus told them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” That means there is no place where Jesus is not King. He is King in Heaven, King on earth, King over the Church, King over our little St. Mary’s, and King even over the quiet fields of Camp Littlemore.

Then Father LeRoy explained that Jesus gave His disciples a great mission. He told them to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that He commanded. Father said the Church has been carrying that mission ever since, from country to country, church to church, family to family, and heart to heart.

But the part that stayed with me most was when Jesus said, “Remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Father LeRoy said those words are like a lamp for every Christian soul. Jesus did not say, “I was with you.” He said, “I am with you.” He is with us when we are brave, and He is with us when we are afraid. He is with us when we understand, and He is still with us when we are a little confused, like the disciples who worshiped but still had some doubt.

I thought about that later when I drove my Ford tractor slowly across the little bridge. Mini rode in the wagon behind me with her orange squeak ball. The wagon bumped softly over the boards, and Mini sat there very grandly, like she was guarding all of Camp Littlemore.

On the back of the wagon, I imagined a brand new white tin sign that said, “With You Always.” That is the name for today, because it is what Jesus promised.

I looked back once to make sure Mini was all right, and then I thought how Jesus looks after us even better than that. He sees the whole road. He sees the bridge, the creek, the farm, the church, and every place I cannot see yet. I only have to keep going where He asks me to go, and trust that He is near.

Tonight, in the patchwork quilt tent in the bedroom, Sister Mary Claire and I said our prayers in our pajamas. The little lamp made everything soft and golden, and Mini curled close by, looking sleepy and safe. I thanked Jesus for staying with us always. I thanked Him for St. Mary’s, for Father LeRoy’s words, for Robert’s kindness, for Sister’s care, for Mini’s happy face, and for my new Ford tractor.

I want to remember that Jesus is with me always, even to the end.
Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for promising to be with us always. Stay close to me when I am brave and when I am afraid. Help me follow You, trust You, and remember that You are King of Heaven and earth. Bless Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Mini, Father LeRoy, and everyone at St. Mary’s.

Amen.

Love,

The Little Ford

Dear Diary,

Today after Mass, Robert had the nicest surprise for me.

He gave me the little Ford tractor.

He said he never, ever used it, and it just sat in the shed looking lonesome.

Then he smiled and said it might as well be my tractor, since I could use it for little jaunts around Camp Littlemore and someday down toward the cave.

Sister Mary Claire looked pleased, but careful.

Robert said he would teach me slowly, and that I must never go faster than a sensible farm girl ought to go.

That made Sister Mary Claire smile.

Father LeRoy’s homily stayed in my heart all day.

In the Gospel, Jesus said,
“Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.”

Father LeRoy said that when we pray in the name of Jesus, we are not just sending wishes up into the sky.

We are going to the Father through His beloved Son.

And Jesus told the disciples something so beautiful — that the Father Himself loves them because they love Jesus and believe He came from God.

I thought about that when I looked at my little Ford.

I have not driven it over the old bridge yet.

Robert said we will practice first in the lane and near the field.

Someday, when Sister Mary Claire says it is safe, I may take it slowly toward the cave path, with Mini riding safely behind me.

I keep imagining the wooden bridge, Indian Creek sparkling below, the corn just coming up small and green, and the cave waiting quietly beyond the trees.

I think I will ask Jesus to help me be careful, grateful, and brave.

Maybe prayer is a little like learning to drive the tractor.

I must not rush.

I must listen.

I must trust the one who is teaching me.

And Jesus is the best Teacher of all, because He brings my heart straight to the Father.

Tonight the little Ford is waiting by the shed, and I am waiting too.

I feel like the corn after rain — small, green, and happy to be growing.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for this happy day and for Robert’s kindness.

Teach me to ask the Father in Your holy Name with a trusting heart.

Help me learn slowly, listen carefully, and never be careless with the gifts You give me.

Bless Sister Mary Claire, who keeps me safe.

Bless Robert, who is so good to us.

Bless Mini, who will surely think the tractor belongs partly to her too.

Stay close to me tonight, dear Jesus, and make my joy complete in You.

Amen.

Love,
Kathy

The Little Corn Rows and His Promise

Dear Diary,

Today is Friday, and the little corn is popping up in the fields now. It looks like tiny green stitches sewn across the dark Iowa dirt. Some rows are still shy, but some are plain as can be, and I kept watching them from Robert’s pickup while we rode to St. Mary’s for Holy Mass.

Robert picked us up as usual and right on time. Sister Mary Claire had her prayer book with her, and Mini sat close beside me with her bright Corgi ears up, as if she were listening for church bells before we even got there. The morning smelled like spring fields, damp earth, and new growing things.

At Mass, Father LeRoy read the Gospel about Jesus meeting the eleven disciples on the mountain. He said something that stayed in my heart all day. He said the disciples worshiped Jesus, but some still doubted. That made me feel better somehow, because even the friends of Jesus had weak moments. Father said Jesus did not turn away from them because they were not perfect. Instead, He came closer and gave them a great mission.

Father LeRoy explained that when Jesus said, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me,” He was telling them that He was truly King over everything. Then He sent them out to teach all nations and baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Father said this is why the Church keeps going from year to year, country to country, and little church to little church, even all the way to our St. Mary’s in Littlemore.

But my favorite part was the very last line.

Jesus said, “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

Father LeRoy said those words are like a lantern that never goes out. Jesus did go up to Heaven, but He did not leave us lonely. He is with His Church. He is with us in prayer. He is with us in the Blessed Sacrament. He is with us when we are brave, and He is with us when we feel small and unsure.

On the ride home, Sister Mary Claire said the little corn rows made her think of the Gospel. The farmer plants the seed, but God gives the life. Father LeRoy plants Jesus’ words in our hearts at Mass, and then we must let them grow. Robert said the corn has to push up through the dirt before anyone can see it, and maybe faith is like that too. Sometimes it is growing quietly before we even notice.

I looked out the window at the fields and thought maybe every tiny corn blade was saying, “Jesus is with us always.”

Tonight we made our patchwork quilt prayer tent again in the bedroom. Sister Mary Claire helped tuck the quilts just right, and the lantern made everything soft and golden. I read the evening prayer from my sheet of paper, and Mini lay there with no collar, looking pleased to be included. I imagined Jesus and Mother Mary very near, not in a pretend way, but in the quiet real way that comes when a heart is praying.

It felt like our little prayer tent was a mountain, and Jesus was saying the same thing to us that He said to the disciples:

“I am with you always.”

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus,
thank You for staying with us always.
Help my faith grow like the little corn in the fields.
Help me remember that You are near
when I am happy,
when I am afraid,
and even when I do not understand everything.

Dear Mother Mary,
keep me close to Jesus tonight.
Bless Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Father LeRoy,
and my dear Mini sleeping beside us.

Please make our little prayer tent
a quiet place where my heart remembers Heaven.

Amen.

Love,
Kathy

___________

 

Gospel Reading

A reading from
the holy Gospel according to Matthew 28:16-20

The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted. Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

“I Am With You Always”

Dear Diary,

This morning Robert picked us up as usual and right on time, and we went to St. Mary’s for Holy Mass. It was a soft May morning, and everything along the road looked fresh and green. Mini came with us and settled down quietly, as if she knew it was a very holy day.

Father LeRoy read the Gospel about Jesus meeting His disciples on the mountain after He rose from the dead. He said the disciples worshiped Him, but some still doubted. Father LeRoy told us that this should comfort us, because Jesus did not send away the weak and trembling ones. He came near to them.

Then Father LeRoy explained that when Jesus said, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me,” He was showing that He is King over everything. Then He sent His apostles to teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Father LeRoy said this is how the Church keeps carrying Jesus’ truth through the whole world. The apostles were not going out by their own strength. Jesus gave them their mission, and then He gave them the sweetest promise of all: “I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

I liked that part best. It made my heart feel very safe. Jesus did not only say, “Go.” He also said, “I am with you.”

After Mass, Robert drove to the Breakfast Club so I could deliver the eggs. The four cousins were all very busy, and the place smelled like coffee, toast, and warm breakfast. Sister Mary Claire bought breakfast for us, which made it feel like a little treat after Church.

Caleb was cheerful even though he was hurrying about. Before we left, he gave us a pie-shaped slice of brie cheese to take home, and even gave a tiny nibble for Mini. Mini received it very politely, but her eyes said she hoped Caleb would become a cheese saint someday.

When we got home, I thought about the Gospel again while finishing chores. The apostles had a great work to do, and I only had eggs, hens, Mini, and my little duties. But maybe Jesus is with people in great missions and also in small chores. Maybe He is with me when I carry the egg basket, when I try to be good, and when I write in my diary at night.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for promising to be with us always. Please stay close to Father LeRoy, Sister Mary Claire, Robert, Caleb, Hayden, Sasha, Max, and all the people at the Breakfast Club. Help me do my little duties with love, and help me remember that You are near, even when I cannot see You.

Amen.

Love,
Kathy

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 28:16–20

The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted. Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

Morning Song to Mary

Dear Diary,

This morning Robert picked us up as usual and right on time, and we went to St. Mary’s for Holy Mass. Mini came along and stayed close, quiet and happy.

Father LeRoy read how Jesus told His disciples that He still had more to teach them, but they could not bear it yet. Then Jesus promised the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of truth, who would guide them into all truth.

Father LeRoy said Jesus never gives a soul more than it can carry. He teaches gently, little by little. The Holy Ghost does not bring a different truth from Jesus. He takes the truth Jesus already gave and helps the Church understand it more deeply. He also helps our own hearts receive it, little by little, until what seemed hard or hidden becomes clearer in God’s light.

On the way home, Sister Mary Claire said it is like morning light coming over the fields. The fields are already there, but the light helps us see them.

After chores, I gathered the eggs and got the best ones ready for Caleb and the Breakfast Club. Omelette had a warm brown egg in her nest, and Mini waited by my feet while I finished.

I do not understand everything yet, but I can stay close to Jesus and let the Holy Ghost teach me one little light at a time.

Evening Prayer

Dear Holy Ghost, Spirit of truth, please guide my heart gently. Teach me what Jesus wants me to know. Help me stay close to Him and not be afraid when I do not understand everything yet.

Amen.

Love,
Kathy

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A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 16:12–15

Jesus said to his disciples: “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming. He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. Everything that the Father has is mine; for this reason I told you that he will take from what is mine and declare it to you.”

The Gospel of the Lord.