MEDITATION:
Written by Rev. Dr. Donald Owens, Associate Director, Christ Ministry Center/Safe Harbors Network, a mission partner of the Village Church.
Last year, during Lent, Safe Harbors Network was working to meet the needs of Asylum Seekers and immigrants showing up on the doorsteps of Christ Ministry Center. This Lent, we are still working to provide food, clothing, and temporary shelter. This Devotional reminds us that we do not pass through this season alone. In this community, we are surrounded by others with hopes, fears, faith, courage, and doubts. During this season, our goal is to recruit sponsor families who will provide shelter and support, so we can continue to make a difference in the lives of more refugees fleeing disasters, famine, droughts, criminal activity, violence, wars, poverty, or other unbearable circumstances. In this season of Lent, I reflect on a family that was found sleeping on the steps of Christ Ministry Center on a Sunday Morning at 1:30 a.m. I was called and asked what he should do; this family consisted of a husband, wife, and two tiny toddlers sleeping on the portal under a blanket in 40-degree weather. The family was brought inside the building and given additional blankets and food. Later that Sunday morning, I went to the church to meet the family and decided for the family to stay in a hotel. This family only wanted to get to New York to cross into Canada, where they had family. They needed money for a bus ticket to New York. The Staff of Safe Harbors Network purchased tickets and gave money for food for them to travel to New York. Our hearts are happy because the family made it to New York and crossed the border into Canada to unite with other family members. The family called to thank us for providing humanitarian aid. They call monthly to give us an update on their progress while making a living in Canada. To God be the glory for those who cross our pathway; as we continue to make a difference in the lives of more refugees fleeing disasters, famine, droughts, criminal activity, violence, wars, poverty, or other unbearable circumstances. ‘ I pray that this Devotional will steadily touch the hearts of those who read it to provide humanitarian assistance to our brothers and sisters seeking asylum.
PRAYER:
Written by Catherine Gorman, a contemporary writer.
Father of all, there are many among us who go hungry. Help us to listen and respond as one family, so that, as we break bread together, we may glimpse your Kingdom here on earth – a Kingdom of welcome and plenty for all. Amen.
Pathways Press.com 