Tuesday Morning, Rainy and Cold
This morning started out dreary and drippy. Rain was splattering against the windows when we got up, and it hadn’t let up one bit by the time Sister Mary Claire and I were ready to head down to the mailbox. Mini is usually eager to come along—she’ll brave snow and even wind—but rain is her enemy! Just as Sister opened the door and we stepped out under the porch roof, I looked back and saw Mini trotting quickly down the hallway and diving under the bed, like she was heading for her own little cave. It made me smile. Sweet girl knew what was coming and wanted no part of it.
By the time we made it to the mailbox, the rain had picked up even more, making little rivers down the gravel road. Robert was already there in his pickup, wipers swishing back and forth, and he leaned over to push open the passenger door for us. Sister had tucked her Meditation Book into an empty bread bag to keep it dry—she said the Word of God ought never be soggy! That made Robert laugh.
At Mass, Father LeRoy preached straight from the meditation Sister had brought. He spoke about how the Risen Lord appeared first to Peter—how full of love and forgiveness Jesus must have been to go find the one who had denied Him! It was like Jesus knew Peter was still weeping inside. Father said Peter must’ve felt like his heart was bursting when he saw Jesus again. I think I would’ve cried too if it had been me.
On the ride home, Robert asked what Sister thought about Peter being chosen first among the men to see the Risen Lord, and Sister said it was just like Jesus—He always runs straight to the ones who need Him most. Then she turned to me and asked who I would run to first if I rose from the dead. I joked and said, “Well, probably Mini,” which made them both laugh. But then I added, “Maybe the person who hurt me the most… just to let them know I forgave them.” Sister smiled real soft, and Robert nodded like that made good sense. I think that’s what Jesus did—He went to Peter not to scold him, but to bring him peace. I hope I can love like that someday.
Evening Prayer
Dear Jesus,
Thank You for loving Peter so much, even after he denied You. Please help me to love others that way, even when they hurt me. Make my heart tender and quick to forgive. Keep me from ever doubting Your love, and if I ever fall, let me come back to You like Peter did—full of tears, but even fuller of hope.
Amen.
Love,
Kathy
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