That thorn in your paw
The little bunny stood trembling within the shelter of the drain pipe along the side of the house. He knew there was danger outside as he watched the hawk circling above ready to pounce on him, waiting eagerly with speed and perception as she flew in search for food for her own little family that awaited her return. "Where is Mama?", thought the sweet little bunny. "She has to be worried about me surely!". "This place is scary!" "Oh! I hope I find her soon! Then I'll be safe". The hawk did not give up her quest for food. No relief was in sight for the precious bunny, staying hidden until he thought of running, his only escape, was clear. Minute after minute passed and the little bunny stayed vigilant in his pursuit of safely returning home. All of a sudden, the hawk landed. Walking close by as the scent of nearby food hit her nose. Oh no!" thought the little bunny. "There is no hope for me!". Just then, the little bunny noticed something out of the corner of his eye. It was mama. "What was she doing?! Doesn't she see the hawk close at hand?" The little bunny's heart was racing. Then, suddenly, his mama took off like lightning, risking her life for her baby. The little bunny saw the hawk notice his mother and in a great leap she took off for the sky. The mother hid herself within the brush of the trees as the hawk circled around and around, until giving up and flying away for other means of food. "Come to me my child", whispered the mama to her baby. Faithfully trusting in his mother's tender voice, he crept out slowly and ran with great speed to her comforting side. Finally safe, yet with a little scolding from his mother, they both returned home. Him promising to never leave her side again. Mama and the baby hopped home joyfully feeling the love each had for one another.
Protection for us is like the bunny and his mother. Mary, "our" Mother is ready to protect us from anything and everything that can lead us astray or any danger that tries to pursue us. She was conceived for this purpose. Just as she protected Her baby, Jesus, so She will always protect us! She will go to all lengths to protect us and to always keep us by Her side.