“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

James 1:22

A few months ago I was reading our local online newspaper when I came across an article about the Syrian refugees who will soon be moving to our city. There will be only a handful at first; more in the years to come.

I was happy to hear that our small city in central Pennsylvania is making room for the hurting and lost of the world. Then, I made the mistake of reading the comments under the article, in which other people in this city made plain their fear and racism.

Just a few days ago I was online and saw these same people are putting together a rally outside of one of the main organizations here in the city that is helping with refugee relocation and acclimation. They want to make sure everyone knows they do not welcome refugees in this city.

My first response after reading the article and then hearing about the protest was quick and visceral. I wanted to shout at them! I wanted to use words to tell them and everyone else why they were wrong! I wanted to confront and defend my own belief.

I’ve been thinking a lot about my reaction, and while communication and dialogue is always an important part of the process, sometimes it seems that it’s all we do these days. Something controversial happens in the world, so we blog about it or post on Facebook or send out a Tweet.

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

We can argue against abortion, but are we helping with the foster care and adoption process? We can argue for refugees, but are we helping local organizations provide shelter, food, and services?

I am beginning to realize that speaking out is important, but it’s not enough. I need to do something. I called Church World Service, our local refugee organization, and offered to write stories about the refugees they are helping. I’ve done two so far—the stories are powerful, and I’m hoping they’ll help introduce these folks to our community. I’ve helped deliver furniture to refugees here in the city, and Maile and I spent some time with one of the Palestinian women who is waiting for her family to join her.

It’s small, but it’s something. It’s a start.

FOR FURTHER REFLECTION:

Have you been genuinely moved by something recently, whether it be the plight of refugees or those abused by human trafficking? Maybe you have been through a particularly difficult life circumstance and feel called to help others in similar situations. What could you now do?

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, thank you for breaking our hearts over the things that break yours. By the power of your Holy Spirit, please give us wisdom to know the things we can do that will back up the love that we speak about. Amen.