July 4th – His Heart Still Suffers

Dear Diary

Today is Independence Day, and while the skies will be full of fireworks tonight, the morning was calm and cool. I brought my little flag with me down to the sanctuary cave, and Sister Mary Claire helped me tuck it near the grotto. Mini padded along quietly, her ears already perked from the far-off bangs and booms starting up across the countryside.

I carried my meditation book with me—the one Sister Mary Claire left on the table this morning—and read it while sitting on the smooth rock near the stream. The title was The Sufferings of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It nearly stopped my own heart to think how much pain Jesus bears in His Heart… not just from the nails or the crown of thorns, but from being forgotten.

The meditation said His Heart aches the most when we don’t love Him or trust Him. When people act like He’s not even there. And He hides His sorrow, so we don’t have to feel burdened by it—but still, He suffers for love of us. That’s the part that made me blink away tears. He loves us that much.

It’s strange, I thought, how we celebrate freedom today with parades and hot dogs and loud fireworks, but the One who gives us real freedom is mostly left out. So I whispered my own little thanks to Him in the cave:

“Dear Jesus, I remember You. I love You. Even if the whole country forgets, I won’t.”

Later, Sister Mary Claire brought a sparkler and we lit it just once in the cave, watching it flicker like a tiny golden fountain. I offered it up for His Sacred Heart—to bring Him just a spark of comfort. I think He noticed.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, burning with love for us, make my heart burn with love for Thee.

O Mary Immaculate, guard our land and bring us closer to your Son.

Love,

Kathy