A Little Update

I wanted to share a brief recap of what’s been happening in my life this past week. In early May, I began getting sick with multiple viral, fungal, and bacterial infections. This weakened my immunity, and my lungs took a hit, which affected my heart. I was hospitalized last Wednesday, and with many tests behind me now and results coming in, I am getting better.

But by the grace of God, it could have gone differently, once again. I am grateful for every bit of strength He sends me — in the prayers of family and close friends, in being strong in the faith, and in the way He continually leads me to His Sacred Heart. I am grateful for whatever days He has counted out for me, and as I’ve said before, I’m knocking, seeking, and asking for every day. I have much to live for, and although I love to think of living with the Trinity in eternal life and am ready to go when He calls, I hope it is not for a while yet. But His will be done!

I wrote a post yesterday on my Divine Intimacy blog that I’d like to share. You may already have read it on that blog, my personal Facebook page, or the Divine Intimacy Facebook group. If so, you can stop reading now.

If you haven’t, I hope you’ll keep reading below and let the Lord take you to the ocean through His river and your personal bay. You’ll see what I mean as you read on.

Take care, all. Good to be with you again.

Abiding in Christ

Divine Intimacy #218

Cathy Trowbridge

Jun 22, 2026

Today, I find myself sitting in a hospital room overlooking the Hillsborough River, which flows into Tampa Bay and eventually the Atlantic Ocean. At least I think that’s what it does. One follows the other, and as they travel together, they merge into one body of water. The river is the starting place, just as Jesus is the starting point of love and grace.

As I read the meditation this morning and gaze out at the view, I thought about how important it is for me to receive Jesus every day I can, especially since I’m not well. I’ve been in this hospital before and will likely be again. A double lung transplant has put me in a “chronic” condition that brings me here at times. I count on the will of God to bring me back to my earthly home or to His heavenly one. Whatever is His will. What’s key is that I stay connected to Him, despite all the interruptions. Regular daily life has its bumps in the schedule as well, but being here is just a little less controlling.

One thing I truly miss is daily Mass and receiving Jesus. The last time I was here, it hadn’t been easy to find someone to bring me communion. They had chaplains, but very few Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. I thought about the graces of Holy Communion and how it helps us draw closer to Christ. I found solace in knowing many friends were offering their communions for me. I offered spiritual communions and thought of all who cannot receive regularly in other countries.

I watched Mass online and wished I could have found a way for someone to bring Jesus to me. Then I had a great surprise! A woman knocked on my door, said she was here as an Extraordinary Minister, and asked if I would like to receive Holy Communion! My heart swelled and leaped with delight. We prayed together, and then my friend, who was visiting, and I received Him. Oh my Jesus. He never lets me down!

I imagine Jesus as the river and me as the bay. He was going to come to me at some point. I prayed that my dependence and will would be inclined toward Him. And He did come! Together, I felt us flow out to the ocean, to the indwelling of the Holy Trinity. He relieved my hunger and provided me with peace. I feel protected, provided for, and loved by Him, and regardless of my health, He is all I need. Of course, I need you too, and I am grateful for your many prayers.

I pray you find His love, in health or in sickness, today and always. Keep the river flowing into your bay, where He will provide all you need.

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