January 7, 2025

She calls Peg and me. She is home from the hospital. “As they wheeled me into surgery … I held onto “my little Jesus” … and I knew he would be with me.” The other day I’m in line at “the Jewel.” The lady in front of me is trying to find something in her purse. “Little Jesus” spills onto the counter. She looks at me. “I was visiting a church a while back, and the kids were passing these out. I carry this “little Jesus” with me all the time.” I knew where she got it … but I just smiled. It felt good to be anonymous. I need a “little Jesus” today. Well … actually … I need a “little Jesus” everyday. When life seems a bit dark … and life can be “dark” a lot … little Jesus reminds me of the “light” of God’s presence. In a hospital waiting room … at the counter in a grocery store … waiting for test results … trying to balance work and family and all the unfinished “stuff” we can’t seem to get done —– Yes, “little Jesus” … you are there. I need you in my hand, in my purse, and … most of all … in my heart. If you need a “little Jesus” … stop by anytime. But wherever you are … please know: the “real little Jesus” lives inside the soul of each one of us. Peace … Don