It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of headlines and heartaches that scroll across our screens every day. Stories of displaced families, war-torn nations and people seeking refuge can sometimes feel distant. But what if these stories were not just news items, but God-given invitations for us to respond with hearts moved by His compassion? On June 20th, we observe the Day of Refugees, which is more than a date on the calendar; it’s a opportunity and call to the body of Christ to rise up in love and action.
What is World Refugee Day?
World Refugee Day was established by the United Nations to honour the strength and courage of refugees worldwide, drawing attention to their plight and fostering global solidarity. Imagine being forced to leave your home, your memories and everything familiar, only to face uncertainty and danger. This is the reality for over 110 million displaced people around the world, according to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). Their stories are filled with loss, resilience and hope for a better tomorrow.
Our Biblical Blueprint for Compassion
The Bible overflows with God’s heart for the displaced and marginalized. In Leviticus 19:33-34, God commands the Israelites to treat foreigners residing among them with the same love and respect as their own, reminding them, “You were foreigners in Egypt.” This call to empathy is heard in the New Testament too. Jesus’ ministry was marked by radical inclusivity and compassion. His parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) challenges us to love beyond our comfort zones, to see every person as our neighbour. In Matthew 25:35, Jesus speaks directly: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.”
Our Christian Response
- Advocacy and Awareness: We can’t turn a blind eye. Our voices can amplify the stories of refugees, advocating for policies that protect and support them. Let’s educate ourselves and our communities about the real struggles these individuals face.
- Prayer and Spiritual Support: There’s power in prayer. Let us lift up refugees in prayer, asking for God’s protection, provision and peace. Imagine the comfort and strength they would feel knowing we are interceding on their behalf.
- Hospitality and Integration: God’s love knows no borders. We can practice radical hospitality by welcoming refugees into our communities and Corps, offering them the support they need to rebuild their lives. This might mean helping with language classes, skills training if possible or simply offering friendship.
On this Day of Refugees, let’s pause and reflect on the heart of the Gospel that calls us to love extravagantly, to see the unseen and to embrace the stranger. In welcoming the stranger, we welcome Christ Himself. Let’s seize this opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus, extending grace and hope to our refugee brothers and sisters. Together, we can build bridges of love and compassion, reflecting God’s heart to a world in desperate need of His light.