God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What is the matter, Hagar? Do not be afraid; God has heard the boy crying as he lies there” (Genesis 21:17).

“Has the Lord spoken only through Moses?” they asked. “Hasn’t he also spoken through us?” And the Lord heard this (Numbers 12:2).

For Meditation

— What does a dying little boy from starvation and an older man, who is under attack by his critics, have in common?

— The attention of God and His gracious intervention! —

— If you have ever suffered a cruel rejection, as Haggar and Ismael did; or you have been a victim of gossip and criticism, as Moses suffered, you know how it feels —

— More stinging is when the rejection comes from the father of your child or, the back-chewing is from your family members or friends —

— But when Ishmael’s cry broke the heart of Hagar, God could not hold back mercy and grace any longer —

—And when Aaron and Miriam, the siblings of Moses, joined the party of critics and gossipers against their brother, God would not have it —

— In the desert of Beersheba, “God heard the boy [Ishmael] crying” (Gen. 21: 17) … and in Hazeroth, “the LORD heard [Aaron and Miriam’s gossip]” against Moses (Numbers 12:2).

— I love it! God cared so much for Hagar and Ismael’s condition, and He covered the back of Moses well too.

Isn’t that wonderful?

— Isn’t it amazing to know that God hears the desperate cry of the rejected and marginalized, as well as the wicked whispers and gossips of family and friends behind his faithful servants?

— But more than that. Isn’t it encouraging to know that God stepped in to refresh Hagar and Ismael (Gen. 21:19); and to know that God dealt with the two siblings who messed up with Moses?

— Hasn’t God heard your cry also in the critical situations you encountered throughout the year? Did He not intervene?

— Did God not hear your enemies and critics? Has He not taken care of them His way?

— Are these not good reasons to celebrate the goodness of God today?

The Lord is our God, who hears and intervenes.

Thank Him, somebody!

— Happy Thanksgiving Day to our brothers and sisters in the USA!