Dear Diary,
The ice storm last night left the world sparkling and frozen, with the roads too dangerous for travel. Mass was canceled, so Sister Mary Claire and I stayed home. After breakfast, we settled by the fire with one of her meditation books.
Today’s reflection was about the souls in which Jesus does not take up His permanent abode. Sister read aloud:
“Though our Blessed Lord desires ardently to dwell in our hearts, few know how to secure His presence permanently. Divine grace is not imparted to all in the same measure.”
Sister explained how Jesus longs to dwell in our hearts, but He cannot stay where there is clutter or carelessness. “It’s not enough to invite Him in, Kathy,” she said. “We must prepare a space for Him through prayer and effort, keeping it clean from sin and full of love.”
She continued, “When we let distractions or selfishness creep in, it’s like shutting the door on Him. He knocks, but we must open the door and make Him feel welcome.” As she spoke, I thought about the ways I could better prepare my heart. Sister reminded me that self-denial and gratitude are the best ways to make room for His grace.
We prayed this prayer together:
“Lord, help me to prepare my heart for You. Teach me to let go of distractions and make more room for Your love and grace. May I live not for the fleeting things of this world but for the peace that comes from living for You. Amen.”
The afternoon was spent on chores, with Mini darting around the yard, exploring the icy patches in her own joyful way. When Sister started boiling potatoes for dinner, she suggested we make butter gravy to go with them. She insisted I stir the gravy myself, saying, “The best way to learn is to do it with your own hands.”
With her guidance, I melted the butter, stirred in the flour until it was smooth, and slowly whisked in the milk. Sister kept a watchful eye, giving gentle instructions as I went. “Be patient, Kathy. Keep stirring until it thickens. Cooking, like prayer, takes focus and care.”
Mini sat by my feet the whole time, watching with great interest, probably hoping for a taste of the potatoes. When the gravy was finally ready, Sister declared it perfect. We both laughed as she told me again about her first teaching job and how she had discovered butter gravy for the first time.
Here’s the recipe for the White Butter Gravy that we made:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
3. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly, and cook until thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
The day ended with Mini snoozing by the fire, the house quiet and warm. I felt grateful for the lessons of the day, both spiritual and practical.
Goodnight, dear Diary.
Love,
Kathy
Meditation Source: Jesus - The Model of Religious, Meditations for Every Day of the Year, Volume One, 1925
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