Many, many years ago
my Daddy’s big brother, Patsy,
died of TB.
He was only 21.

Patsy had tremendous faith.

One day
Patsy went for a walk
and was away much longer
than expected.

On his return
his anxious Mammy asked,
“Where were you, son?”
“I called into Pennyburn chapel
to make a visit,”
explained Patsy,
“and I didn’t like to leave
until someone else came in.
I didn’t want to leave Jesus
all alone.”

Something similar
happened to me today.
I called into Pennyburn chapel
with Daddy
to get some holy water.
I smiled to myself
when I entered the chapel
because the Blessed Sacrament
was exposed on the altar.
Then I noticed that,
apart from Daddy and me,
the chapel was deserted.

Jesus had been in here
on the altar
all alone.

My heart sank at the thought.

As I genuflected on my way out,
I made a silent promise,
“I’ll be back soon.
I can’t leave you here
all alone.”

So I drove Daddy home
and ten minutes later
I was back in Pennyburn chapel.

To my delight
I saw half a dozen people
kneeling in prayer.

Jesus wasn’t all alone
after all!

But, you know,
I’m glad I returned
because I couldn’t really
leave Jesus all alone –
now could I?

© Claire Murray, 6th September 2023