The Lord hears the cry of the poor

Today, Lord, I was placed in an uncomfortable situation.

A small community of sisters shared with me their pain and the struggles of their mission.
One particular incident
seemed to shake not only their work,
but even their sense of purpose.

They shared how they had reached out to the local bishop,
requesting he bless their pre-school
in an urban poor community.

Instead, they were told that a stipend of almost 300 USD was required.

For the sisters, this was a large amount.
Yet, out of respect and a desire to do what was right,
they tried to find a way—
even when it meant stretching beyond what they had.

As I listened, Lord,
I felt their disappointment,
their confusion,
and their question:
Is this how the Church hears the cry of the poor?

Your Word says You hear their cry.
Not with conditions.
Not with fees.
But with compassion.

Lord, teach me to listen as You listen—
with a heart that does not turn away
when the cry is inconvenient or uncomfortable.

And remind Your Church, and each of us within it,
that authority and blessing are meant to serve,
not burden
those who already carry so much.

Tuesday of the 3rd Week of Advent