Sirach 35:12–18; Psalm 34; 2 Timothy 4:6–8, 16–18; Luke 18:9–14

close to
the brokenhearted,
those crushed
in Spirit—
He saves.

the Lord
hears
the cry
of the poor,
not turning
a deaf ear
to the wail
of orphans,
to the plea
of widows.

our prayers
pierce the clouds,
not resting
until they reach
the heart of God.

humbled,
we know ourselves
as sinners,
and wait
for mercy.

not having done enough,
we turn
our lives
over to Love—
waiting in patience
for a justice
that knows
no favorites.

Do you hear the cries of the poor?
Do you know mercy?
Is God close to you when your Spirit is crushed?
When your heart is broken?