Caring For Others

This is what the LORD of Heaven’s Armies says: Judge fairly, and show mercy and kindness to one another. Do not oppress widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor. And do not scheme against each other.

We’d been watching the news and following along for several days. War was causing people to flee their homes and country for safety. We kept in close contact with a friend who works for a Christian organization that helps resettle immigrants and refugees around our state.

We talked together as a family about what it means to be a refugee, having to flee everything familiar to you and travel a great distance just to be safe. We wondered together what it would be like to walk in their shoes and then prayed together for their safety and peace.

Afterward, we messaged our friend. “How can we help with this current crisis?” we asked. “We have an extra room if people are coming and need a place to stay.”

“I’ll let you know,” she responded. “I’m not sure how many are coming yet or where they’ll want them to be resettled.”

“Thanks,” I responded. “We’d really like to help; please let us know if there is anything else that we can do.”

A few days later, she let us know of a way we could help, and we, along with our kids, were able to offer support and encouragement to an immigrant family in need.

As Christians, we are called to show mercy and kindness to others. It is a way to show our gratitude to God for his provision to us, and it’s a reminder that all we have comes from him. And God is clear: our mercy should not include only people we know or like but should extend to “widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor.” We don’t get to leave anyone out; everyone is to be cared for. At times this may feel overwhelming because of all the needs around us. That is when we need the Holy Spirit to guide us as we ask, What needs can I help with currently? Where would you like me to use my resources to help others? And when we ask, we can be sure he’ll answer.

Kendra

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Find an organization in your community or state serving immigrants or refugees and offer to help in some capacity, whether buying supplies, volunteering time, or donating monetarily. Thank God for his provision to you that enables you to help others.