The God Who Sees

March is women’s month and this year’s sub theme is “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas.” Hopefully the above theme will be materialized as the government and society gives importance to women’s needs.

The theme which was coined by the Philippine Council for Women (PCW) embodies a sense of optimism and hope, symbolizing a future where women’s lives are truly uplifted. It reflects the commitment to translating gender equality efforts from policy into tangible, meaningful changes in the lives of women. This vision seeks to ensure that all women, particularly those from underserved communities and marginalized sectors, reap the benefits of gender equality in their daily lives.

Furthermore, by prioritizing said groups, PCW said that the 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration emphasizes the need for inclusive progress, ensuring that no woman is left behind in the journey toward equal opportunities and empowerment.

On another note, speaking about women, there is this Egyptian woman named Hagar in the Bible. Her story appears in Genesis 16 and 21. Hagar is the slave of Sarah, Abraham’s childless wife.

Sarah gave Hagar to Abraham to be his concubine and to bear him a child. When Hagar found out that she was pregnant, she became proud and despised Sarah. Then, Sarah treated Hagar cruelly that she ran away.

While in the wilderness, Hagar encountered an angel of the Lord who told her to return to Sarah. The angel likewise told her that she is going to have a son and that she should name him Ishmael because the Lord has heard her cry of distress. Because of that encounter Hagar named God “El Roi,” which means “the God who sees me”.

Hagar returned home and gave birth to Ishmael, Abraham’s firstborn son.

With Hagar’s story, it is evident that God sees each one of us, he cares for those who have been abandoned or left to fend for themselves. Indeed, God is always faithful to fulfill His promises of mercy and love.

Lord, you are the God who sees us. Thank you for seeing our struggles and pains. You are always there to rescue us on those difficult moments in our lives. May we feel your presence and love now and for always. Amen.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18