Today’s readings speak of hearts being turned,
of God coming close,
of names spoken,
and promises fulfilled.

Lord, today You turned my heart in a very real way.

A friend asked if I would like 200 kilos of rice.
Of course I said yes.
So many are in need—
especially now, as prices rise
and the poor suffer more
while the rich continue to progress.

Yesterday upon reaching one home with their Christmas gift pack,
a mother broke down in tears.
She shared that she had already used
their very last cup of rice the day before.

The father had been away for three weeks,
travelling to the province
trying to sell foam mattresses.
He could not return until they were all sold.
Until then, the family would wait—
uncertain,
hungry,
hoping.

Lord, today You reminded me
that Advent is not only about waiting for You to come—
it is about recognising
that You are already here.

In the tears of a mother.
In the absence of a father.
In the quiet dignity of those who wait.

Your Word speaks of preparing the way,
of hearts turning toward one another.
Today, I saw that preparation happen
not in words,
but in rice shared,
in presence offered,
in mercy made real.

Help me never to grow used to these encounters.
Let my heart remain open,
so that when You come—
hidden in the poor,
the hungry,
the waiting—
I may recognise You.

Tuesday, 4th Week of Advent