By Betty Hertz, St. John Lay Leader
13 She (Hagar) answered God by name, praying to the God who spoke to her, “You’re the God who sees me!”
Genesis 16:13 (The Message)
As Pastor Andy shared Hagar’s words, he asked us to really see one another as beloved children of God. My thoughts turned to our neighbors who are Anchorage’s unseen. Once again, they are facing displacement.
This reminded me of the summer of 2020 when our sisters and brothers were bused to Centennial Park. After a disastrous summer there, they were bused back to Sullivan Arena for the winter. As I watched that event, my heart was heavy. Through my tears, I wrote this poem.
Do You See Them?
Them on the street corners
Them begging.
OR
Humans in need of shelter and food.
Them drinking
Them trashing surroundings.
OR
Humans in need of mental health care.
Them dirty
Them not working.
OR
Humans in need of showers and an address
So they can apply for work.
Them living in tents
Them lining up for free clothes.
OR
Humans who had to leave unsafe homes.
Do you see Them?
OR
Do you see Humans?
Reflection: How is God calling us to see and serve God’s children in need?
God, who sees us,
Open our eyes to see all humans as you see them.
Give strength to our sisters and brothers as they seek safe shelter.
Guide us in ways to serve your children who are in need.
In your beloved Son’s name,
Amen.