Devotions

Though Jesus is God, he chose to be born as a human being in a conquered nation, subject to the authority of a far-off emperor who never even knew he was alive. His mother gave birth to him on a journey, in temporary housing far from her relatives.

We are far from our Father’s home, living as exiles and aliens in a world where every day reminds us we don’t belong and aren’t welcome. And we long for the city God is preparing—our everlasting home with Jesus our Savior, who died and rose again to make us God’s children.

During the early years of our ministry among refugees, we saw how difficult it was for them to trust anybody. And they had good reason! In the countries they had left behind, there were plenty of people trying to take advantage of them—corrupt police, government officials looking for bribes.

New Americans may ask: Where would they live? What work would they find? Would they have enough food, clothing, money? At home they had family and friends who would help them if they needed it; but who would help in the new country?

Refugee and immigrant children face everyday unknowns, as they start school in America this month or next. Think of what it’s like to have to understand, to work hard, to achieve—when you already feel like your world is upside down.