Living Out JusticeSample

The God who sees the vulnerable

‘She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.”’ (Genesis 16:13, NIV)

Reflect:

Hagar’s story is a reminder of God’s attentiveness to the marginalised. A slave woman, mistreated and discarded by her masters, Hagar had no social status, no voice, and no rights.

In her moment of desperation, as she fled into the wilderness, God intervened. He found her, spoke to her and showed her mercy, revealing himself as El Roi – the God who sees.

For Hagar, this interaction with God was an unexpected, personal, compassionate recognition of her pain and worth. He goes above and beyond for Hagar, empowering her to name him based on her experience and truth: ‘I have now seen the One who sees me.’

Her social standing, her present pain and her limited choices could not diminish his regard for her. In a world that often overlooks the vulnerable, this story affirms that God sees, cares for and addresses the needs of those who are forgotten by society.

Daily Action:

Feeling marginalised in some way is something most people deal with at some point in life. It is worth spending some time with God in prayer; consider if there are areas in your life where you feel marginalised and then bring those areas to God. If we are to help others, we need to know that God loves us.

People can be marginalised on a broad spectrum, and we can look for ways to be present in these situations. Maybe you’ve noticed someone at church having a hard time finding a social circle. You could give them a call or invite them for coffee. Maybe there’s a programme for at-risk youth in your neighbourhood. Ask if they need mentors. Maybe you know about a nearby shelter for women. Sign up as a volunteer or enquire about their donation needs.

No matter the severity of the situation, we serve a God who sees the marginalised and empowers us to share his love with them!

Prayer:

God, you see me in my moments of struggle and remind me that I am known and loved. Make me aware of those who feel invisible so that I may extend your mercy and reflect your unwavering love.

Inhale: God, your heart is for the vulnerable.

Exhale: Open my eyes in compassion.