I’ve been wanting to go to the market early morning in the weekend but because of work, I get to go late in the afternoon. (Just saying, not complaining! I’m super grateful for work.) In the afternoon, it’s either the goods have run out or the ones left are not fresh anymore.

I like to cook something special for my family when I have the time. Today’s a holiday so I grabbed the opportunity to go to the market early. I thought it would only take me a few minutes to get everything I needed because it was early in the morning and vendors still have an abundant supply, but lo! I finished an hour and a half later.

I walked around the second and third floor (where the fruit and vegetable sections are) four times to look for pine nuts and basil leaves. Two vendors told me that their suppliers bring the herbs in the afternoon. I couldn’t wait for that because I have other things to do and I promised my family I’d cook for lunch.

Even though I was informed there were no herbs available, I still looked around. I told God that I already had the other ingredients for the pasta I’m making. I kept repeating the verse, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you shall find… (Matthew 7:7)” to myself. I also recited it to God—not because He’s forgetful and needs reminding, but because I was holding on to that promise.

After an hour and a half of going back and forth, up and down the upper floors, looking and asking people, and failing, I decided to go to another market. As I was about to leave, my eyes were led to some greens across the street. I realized they were basil leaves when I came closer, but I asked the vendor for confirmation because I could not believe my eyes!

I also thought of going to the mall in case I don’t find them in other markets but they open late. God didn’t want me to go through the hassle of searching other markets or waiting for the malls to open. I can’t contain it! God is faithful!!! God came through for me when I was ready to leave. I felt convicted because I fell asleep while reading the Bible last night. 😅 His words are true. They are living and active. God is true to His promises if we do not give up. To be honest, I was a little worried because I was already tired and I still couldn’t find what I was looking for. What God gave is better than I expected because they’re fresh. (They’re sold in tiny pots because they’re meant for planting.)

I know my dilemma this morning was petty compared to the problems we face in the world now, (I mean, really? Basil leaves?!) but for me, answered prayers as picayune as mine today are important because they’re a form of assurance and reassurance. Realizing that God hears and answers the simplest requests of His children proves His omniscience and omnipresence. He’s all that and yet, He notices us and cares about the little things that worry us. I always want to be made aware of God’s hand in my situation—no matter how paltry or colossal it is.

The LORD does take care of His children. He remains faithful even when we are unfaithful to Him. What a loving God we have!