Susan, a children’s church teacher, will never forget Ama, a quiet ten-year-old girl who sat silently at the back every Sunday, arms folded, watching rather than participating. She never sang, smiled, or joined the games, as if guarding a heart that had learned not to expect joy. One Sunday, during a lesson about Hagar, who God met in the wilderness as El Roi, the God Who Sees, Susan noticed tears in Ama’s eyes. The following week, Ama spoke for the first time, whispering, “Teacher… I don’t think God cares about girls like me.”
Remembering her training with EGM Uganda, where she was equipped not only to teach Bible stories, but to listen to children’s hearts and respond with God’s love, Susan paused and responded with compassion instead of quick answers. She gently reminded Ama that the same God who saw Hagar sees her too; her fears, her pain, and her worth. They prayed a simple prayer together, asking Jesus to help Ama feel seen and loved.
Weeks later, Ama waited after class with a small but genuine smile. “Teacher,” she said, “I think Jesus sees me.” From that moment, Ama began to change as she began singing, participating, helping younger children, and even inviting friends to church. The girl who once hid in silence became a joyful presence among her peers.
