What a Wandering Cat Taught Me About Prayer

Just over a year ago, a cat showed up at our house.

She wasn’t scared or wild like you’d expect a stray to be. She was surprisingly friendly—tolerant of two hyper dogs and one very handsy little girl. Since it seemed like she had decided to adopt us, we named her Fluffy.

Fluffy became a regular sight on our deck. She wandered the woods, hid out in the shed, and snuck into the garage during those freezing Minnesota cold snaps. She made herself part of our family.

This summer’s weather has been a little… off. From endless waves of wildfire smoke drifting down from Canada to what feels like our very own monsoon season here in Minnesota, it’s been a weird one. So when the rain rolled in on Monday—complete with thunder, lightning, and strong winds—we figured Fluffy would hole up in her usual spots.

But by Wednesday, still no Fluffy.

At first, we didn’t think much of it—she’s a resourceful cat. But as the days passed and there was still no sign of her, concern started to settle in. Quiet conversations began with the kids, especially our 8-year-old, who was worried about her cat. We gently prepared them for the possibility that Fluffy may have passed away.

That night, as I lay in bed at our camper, I started praying.

“God, she’s just a cat… but she’s a really good one. Our kids love her. You know that. Would You bring her home?”

Not even five minutes later, my husband sent me a text:

“Fluffy’s back!”

She was wet, hungry, and looking a little rough—but she was home.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”— Philippians 4:6

We don’t pray to God like He’s a vending machine. It’s not about getting everything we ask for. But the Bible tells us to bring everything to Him. Because He cares about our everything—even a missing cat.

Fluffy is back to her usual deck naps and shed hideouts, and now I can't help but wonder:

What was she up to?