“She answered God by name, praying to the God who spoke to her, ‘You’re the God who sees me!’” Genesis 16:13 The Message
Each of us has beautiful qualities, just like all women throughout time. And we each have those ugly moments, character flaws, and circumstances beyond our control, that raise their heads. Not unlike Hagar and Sarah, in today’s scripture reference, we are each a mixed bag.
Hagar, in particular, was having a rough time. It is difficult to know for sure based on the limited details in the Bible, but it looks like she was living out some very traumatic life experiences, not merely a rough day. Her story is complex and heart breaking. Shortly before Hagar hears from God, she and Sarah have been fighting. Hagar runs away into the wilderness. There doesn’t seem to be much hope in this story. Hagar is alone in the world.
However, God does not leave Hagar alone in the desert. God sees Hagar and loves her – exactly the way she is. Just like Hagar, God sees and loves us, too. We are known by the God of the universe. God created each of us, and God loves us. God speaks to us too, wherever we are on this journey! God delights in seeing us, and that is life changing.
God of our good days and bad days, Creator of the Universe, give us courage to believe that You see us! Through Your loving eyes may our own vision be transformed. AMEN
Use the journal included in the May Comfort Kit, to reflect on these questions: If you believe God delights in other people you know, can you turn God’s delight towards yourself? How does it change our viewpoint if we believe God delights in us?
some comfort and joy 