25 Days 2 Christmas - Refugees

After the wise men were gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up! Flee to Egypt with the child and his mother,” the angel said. “Stay there until I tell you to return, because Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” Matthew 2:13

Having lived in the peaceful country of Canada my entire life, I must confess it is hard to comprehend what it is like for millions of people who must flee from their homes and countries because of violence, death, persecution and insecurity.

The pictures of Syrians coming to Canada wakes us up that real people are experiencing profound conflict and chaos in their lives. Often the reasons for refugees are complex and confusing. Our response, however, is to act with compassion. 

The Christmas Story tells me that Jesus was a refugee. He and his family had to flee because his life was at risk. If Jesus was fleeing today would He find a place of welcome in our homes and community?

The answer to that lies in what Jesus later taught about the final judgement. He says how we help others in need will reveal our love for Him.

“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’" Matthew 25:40

Prayer: Lord Jesus, may this Christmas be a time we express our love to you as we extend compassion to others in need. 

Gift to others: Learn about refugees and let that shape how you will express compassion in this coming year.