The Labor of Jesus in His Hidden Life

January 24, 1956

Dear Diary, 

 
Today started with a cozy ride in Robert’s pickup truck. He came by to pick up Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and me, and, as usual, he had the cab nice and warm. We arrived at church early again, which gave us time to read today’s meditation on the labor of Jesus in His hidden life. It reminded me of the love and patience Jesus must have shown in every task He did.

Robert shared how he relates to Jesus’ example, knowing the value of hard work himself. On the way home, we talked about how labor done with the right heart is pleasing to God. Once Robert dropped us off at the driveway, Mini and I ran ahead so I could put another stick of wood on the fire and get the house warmed up.

The rest of the day was busy but peaceful. Sister Mary Claire stayed inside to do the laundry and tidy up the house while I went out to take care of the chores. Mini and I gathered eggs from the coop—Omelette laid another big brown egg today!—and made sure the geese and chickens were all fed and content. Minnie loves running around the yard with me while I work.

When I came back inside, the fire was roaring, and the smell of Sister Mary Claire’s homemade tomato soup filled the kitchen. She served it with her famous Wonder Bread toasted, and it was just perfect after being out in the cold.

Sister Mary Claire’s Easy Homemade Tomato Soup

Here’s how she made it:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 2 (14.5 oz) cans of diced tomatoes (or 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• ½ teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. If using garlic, stir it in and cook for another minute.

2. Add the broth, tomatoes, sugar, and basil to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors blend.

3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer it to a regular blender (in batches) and blend.

4. Stir in the cream or milk for a richer soup, if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve hot with toasted bread or crackers.

Sister Mary Claire said it’s a simple recipe but tastes like a warm hug. Minnie seemed to agree as she sat by the table, wagging her little bottom, hoping for crumbs!

Evening Prayer:

O Lord,
Thank You for the gift of this day,
for the labor that warms the home and feeds the soul.
May my work, however small, always bring glory to You,
just as Your Son labored with love and humility in Nazareth.

Amen.

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