A Well Prepared Heart

December 16, 1955

Dear Diary,


This morning, I bundled up with Sister Mary Claire for Mass, bringing along my meditation book to read before the prayers began. Today’s reading said, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord,” and I thought about what it means to make a place for Jesus. The Affections in the meditation were so beautiful, like a whispered prayer straight to my heart:

"O my God, in union with Holy Church I cry to Thee with all the longing of my soul. Purify my soul, O Lord, by Thy grace, that my Savior may find it well prepared!"

As I sat there in the quiet pew, I prayed these words myself, asking God to help me clear away the distractions and selfishness that keep me from Him. Sister Mary Claire told me later, “It’s not about having a perfect heart, Kathy, but one that’s humble and open.” I thought of how much I long to have Jesus enter my heart and find it ready, clean, and filled with love.

Back at home, Sister made tavern sandwiches from the St. Teresa’s Altar Society Cookbook. The smell was heavenly, and Mini happily squeaked her duck under the table. The rest of the day was peaceful. I started writing my letter to Vreni, telling her how Sister says Advent is like preparing a little room for Jesus in our hearts.

Tonight, Sister led us in an evening prayer, and I quietly repeated the words from the meditation:

"Enlighten us by the grace of the Holy Spirit, O Lord, and remove from my heart all that hinders me from Thy will."

Mini is tucked beside me now, her little duck safe in her paws. I feel warm and calm, like my heart has already started its own quiet preparation.

Goodnight, dear diary.

Kathy

Tavern Sandwiches

A simple and hearty recipe -perfect for these chilly December days.

(Mrs. David Zweifel)

Ingredients:

• 1 pint water
• 1 large onion, chopped
• ¾ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons dry mustard (or plain mustard)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 pounds ground beef (or 1 pound ground beef and 1 pound ground sausage)

Instructions:

1. Boil 1 pint of water and add the chopped onion.
2. Stir in ketchup, chili powder, dry mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for 6-7 minutes.
3. Add the browned and drained ground meat (or meat mixture).
4. Simmer on medium heat for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to keep from sticking.

Serving Tip:
Serve hot on buns or bread. You can broil the sandwiches briefly if you like them browned and bubbly.

 

Sources: 

1. Jesus - The Model of Religious, Meditations for Every Day of the Year, Volume One, 1925.

2. St. Teresa's Cook Book (St. Teresa's Altar Society) - Beresford, South Dakota. 

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