The Syrian Civil War has created an overwhelming refugee crisis, displacing millions upon millions of people from their homes.  Men, women and children have been forced to leave their jobs, schools, and possessions behind — just to stay alive.  Though a large number of refugees have been accepted into neighboring countries, the majority still face severe hardship and lack basic necessities.  Elsewhere in the Middle East and Africa, civilians are being forced to leave their homes due to the threat of ISIS and other radical Islamic groups.  As the hands and feet of Jesus Christ, what should Christians be doing to reach out to this enormous population of people in need?

A situation as devastating and large in scale as the current refugee crisis can seem utterly hopeless—what can any one person possibly do to address a need so great?  But in this episode, Kevin talks with someone who has resolved to do her part nonetheless.  His guest is a 25-year-old American woman named Liz who works with refugees in the Middle East (this pseudonym, as well as the omission of certain details, are intended to protect the privacy of her and her work).  Years ago, Liz began to attend a Christian church near her home that was made up of refugees and immigrants from Arab nations.  As she formed relationships with members of the congregation, she developed a love for the Arab people and their culture. Liz realized that those who are forced to relocate to a new country need more than food and shelter: they also need love and friendship.  After having the opportunity to visit several Middle Eastern nations herself, Liz felt God calling her to move across the world and work with refugees.  Today she lives in the Middle East full time, helping to provide both physical relief and emotional/spiritual support to those in need.

Even if you aren’t able to relocate like Liz, you can still help refugees.  One way is to do what Liz did at the start: find refugees who live near you already (which likely won’t require going far) and simply befriend them!  This is an incredible way to display the love of Jesus, even to people who don’t believe in Him as their Savior.  Another great way to help is by supporting organizations such as The Hope Collective, which are working to provide sustainable solutions to get families struck by this crisis back on their feet for the long term.  (If you would like to help Liz carry out her mission, contact Kevin at this page for information on how to donate.)

“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.” — Matthew 25:35-36

This episode first aired on January 3rd, 2016.