El Roi, The God Who Sees Me — July 2026
The story of Hagar the Egyptian, wife of Abraham, is a woman pushed to the margins, cast out into uncertainty, and left to fend for herself and her child. It is a story uncomfortably close to the reality that many in the world experience today, even in our own society – displacement, exclusion and systems that discard the vulnerable.
Yet in the wilderness, something profound happens. GOD SEES HER, and not in some distant and abstract way, but intimately. Hagar names God ‘the GOD WHO SEES ME’ (In Hebrew EI Roi). This is where the good news begins – not in power or control, but in BEING SEEN. And God is shown to be in solidarity with the one who is wronged.
Jesus’ words in Matthew take this further. ‘Do not be afraid.’ He says, not because suffering isn’t real, but because fear does not have the final word. The God who notices every sparrow, who counts every hair, is not indifferent to human struggle in a world that measures worth by status, productivity, or belonging. Jesus insists on a deeper truth: you are already SEEN, already VALUED.
The God who sees me in strife and roots me in love
Paul’s words in Romans invite us into transformation. To let go of fear, shame, systems of exclusion – and step into a new way of living shaped by God’s Grace. We are SEEN– we are freed from fear –we are CALLED to live in love. This is both a comfort and a challenge. We are reminded that God’s heart is always with those on the edges – Like Hagar and her son, Ishmael.
We are CALLED to reflect that same compassion in how we live, advocate, and build community. But we are also asked, are we still rooted in love, because in the end, it is love, received and given, that sustains a life of faith and draws us back to the GOD WHO SEES US.
Genesis 16:1-15; 2:8-21
By Clive Conway, UCA SA New Times
“You are the God who sees me”
— Genesis 16:13
Thank you to Sylvia Harvey
With heartfelt thanks, the Lay Ministry Team and Church family acknowledge Sylvia Harvey’s faithful service and dedication to our church community.
Sylvia has been a blessing in many ways through preparing the monthly Church newsletter, operating the computer during services, preaching, leading worship, and providing many lovely morning teas. We also recognise her many years of coordinating and packing hundreds of shoeboxes annually for Samaritan’s Purse.
We are especially grateful for Sylvia’s faithful service, care, and commitment to the Lay Ministry Team. Her generosity, dedication, and servant heart have made a lasting difference to our church family.
Thank you, Sylvia, for the love, time, and energy you have so willingly given over many years. May God richly bless you for your faithful service.
Thank you to Lorna Sparks
We are deeply grateful to Lorna Sparks for the beautiful floral arrangements she has faithfully provided over many years through her service on the church flower roster. Lorna’s creativity, care, and dedication have brought colour, warmth, and beauty to our church and have been a blessing to us all. The Church family sincerely thanks you, Lorna, for your many years of loving service and commitment. May God bless you abundantly for your faithful dedication.
Prayers for the Sick and Other Needs
Please remember in your prayers all those who are sick at the moment, especially those in Barunga Village who may not have many visitors. You are the God who sees me even in my sickness.
Shoe Box Project
Packing of shoeboxes is underway and will continue until the end of September. Thank you to everyone who has already supported this ministry through donations and gifts. It is not too late to contribute. Donations of money are welcome, or if you prefer to shop, small soft toys, hair accessories, and jewellery for girls are still needed. Please pray for Operation Christmas Child, its volunteers, and those who will hear of God’s love through these gifts.
Church Computer
We are looking for people who would be willing to learn how to put a service on the Church computer, either regularly or in an emergency. You may not want to put a whole service on the computer, but you may be willing to “press the buttons for a service”. It is easy to do, so please contact Sandra Ireland if you are willing to learn. Thank you. We have purchased a new computer, so come along and have a go.
Knit and Natter
Our next knit and natter will be held on Wednesday, 1st July, in the RSL rooms from 2 pm. Please remember to bring your finished items for Dulcie. Tea, coffee and cake provided, so come along for a fun afternoon of knitting/crocheting and chatting – All welcome.
Home Group &
Alpha Course Training
Home Group will include Alpha Course preparation and team building. All welcome. Meetings at 3 pm, on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, at Ray & Sylvia Skinner’s place.
Friday Afternoon Tea
Following your visit to the Op. Shop, why not call next door to the P.B. Memorial Hall for a refreshing cup of tea or coffee and a slice of cake, for a gold coin donation. All are welcome. If you feel like helping by baking a homemade cake or helping serve, let Sue or Michelle know. Thank you.
Uniting Country
Food Bank
Please keep the contributions of dry goods & tinned food coming!
Sally Stamps
Please continue to save your stamps for ‘Sally Stamp’. You can bring them to the Church and place them in the box in the Church foyer – Thank you.
Blanket Appeal
Donations of clean blankets and quilts are needed for people doing it tough. Please give them to Dulcie Chapman or leave them at the Op Shop marked for her, to be passed on to those in need.
