As our attention turned this week to Syria and the strong possibility of yet more military action in the Middle East, one consequence of that country’s civil war gained more notice: the desperate situation of refugees fleeing the battle zones. According to the United Nations, approximately four million Syrians have left their homes to seek shelter somewhere else within the country. Another two million have fled the country altogether, crossing into Turkey, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, and even farther away. That’s six million people—many of them women, children, and the elderly—who have no home, no security, and precious few resources. And that’s just Syria. Millions of other people around the globe are living the life of a refugee. They have escaped wars, political oppression, famine, and natural disasters. Many live in makeshift refugee camps, while others live in the shadows, desperate and alone, with no one to show them compassion or to help them establish a new life. So as we lift up our own personal petitions, let’s pray for all the people—our brothers and sisters—who have been displaced and who are living in fear, isolation, poverty, and danger. “Jesus, you began your earthly life as a refugee when your family fled Herod’s murderous rage. Along with Mary and Joseph, you experienced the insecurity of not having a home or a safe place as you traveled to Egypt. And so we lift up to you all the people today who have no place to call home. Protect them, Lord, from the dangers they face. Shield them from despair. Send them people who will treat them with kindness, generosity, and respect. Help them find welcome and shelter in new lands, where they can rebuild their lives and once more live in safety and peace. Lord, open doors for all those who wander far from home, and open our hearts to help them in any way we can!”
Posted on: Thu, 12 Sep 2013 10:00:01 +0000
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