We have many refugees in our world today. Some flee civil war or vio- lence. Others have seen their homes destroyed by natural disaster or the infrastructure and industry of their community devastated. The number of refugees saddens many of us, especially because refugees are not always welcomed with open arms.

In the Bible we read about one refugee family in particular –

Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus. If they had not fled their country seeking refuge, the baby would have been killed by King Herod’s order. Many present-day refugees also face certain death if they remain in their own country. Even when they leave, the danger is not over. They face a peril- ous journey to other lands. Mary and Joseph were able to return to their homeland after Herod died and the danger had passed. Many of today’s refugees hope for the same result: they dream of when they might return home once again.

With refugees, those of us who have not been displaced can

hope and pray for peace that will allow them to return to their homelands. While we pray, we can also heed Christ’s call to welcome the stranger. As Christians we are called to do all we can for the refugees on our own doorstep.

Prayer: God of peace, keep us ever mindful of Jesus’ teachings and that when we care for others, we honour him. Amen