Upon reading today's Scripture lesson, I think one has to agree with William Cowper, the 18th century hymn writer, who wrote, "God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform ... "

How God could allow Abram and Sarai to behave as they did and still enjoy his special blessing is a mystery. It is an example of his wonderful grace at work in human lives. It's one of those things that fit well into the substance of Romans 8:28, "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

We do not know if Hagar's encounter with the angel of the Lord grew into a personal faith relationship with God. But we do know that she learned an important fact about God. She said, "You are the God who sees me." We may find ourselves confused in the mysteries of life, but we can be sure that our God sees, understands and cares about what's going on with us.

Heavenly Father, thank you for watching over us day and night and coming to visit with us with gifts of grace in those times when we really don't know what's going on. We praise you in Jesus' name, amen.

Donald E. Wrigley, Dowling Park, Fla.