Day 5: Steady presence

Sineit’s story started in a hard place. She was pregnant, scared and running from an abusive situation in a rural part of Cambodia. But what began as a fight to survive slowly turned into something more.

When she found a warm, welcoming church, things began to shift. People didn’t just speak kind words, they showed up for her. They offered real help, listened to her story and made her and her baby feel like they belonged. This is what the love of Jesus looks like in action: spiritual support partnered with practical care.

Through Compassion’s Mums and Babies program, mothers like Sineit receive more than just supplies and education. They find steady relationships, encouragement and a safe space for them and their babies to grow. Week by week, Sineit’s confidence returned. Hope wasn’t just something she’d heard about, it was something she lived, something she could feel and trust.

Sineit’s story mirrors the heart of Christmas. Just like Jesus was born in a quiet, humble place, hope often shows up where we least expect it. The church that welcomed Sineit became a simple, loving space where new life could begin and she and her baby could dare to dream of a life outside of poverty.

You don’t have to be perfect or have it all figured out to make a difference. Sometimes, hope begins with something as simple as a smile, a meal or reminding someone they’re not alone. When we show up for someone consistently, even in small ways, we help create space for healing and new beginnings.These simple acts, done with care, can be life changing. They’re the quiet ways we live out the gospel every day.

Who in your life might need a little extra support right now? Maybe it’s someone in your community, your church or even your own family. Ask God to show you where you can be a steady presence. You don’t have to fix everything—just be willing to love, listen and walk alongside someone. That’s where hope begins and the love of Jesus shines the brightest.

Prayer

Jesus, thank you for meeting Sineit in her need and for the people and programs that became vessels of your love. We praise you that hope, joy, strength and trust was restored in her life. Today would you open our eyes to those around us who are carrying shame, fear and loneliness. Give us imagination and resources to respond practically and support them through our consistent presence. Thank you for your presence that is always with us. Amen.