And the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him. Matthew 2:13
 
As Christians, we are part of a heritage of displaced peoples. Throughout the Bible we read of people moving away from drought, floods, and crops devastated by insects. People fled the political oppression of a long list of angry kings. They left their homes in search of better economic opportunities or sweet water for their herds.

In the New Testament we are introduced to the fearful father of Jesus who takes his family away from the rage of an ethno-centric leader in their home country. Jesus’ own band of followers were not confined to a single location but moved, most likely by foot, around the whole region. Members of the early church too were migrants, seeking out needy communities, sometimes staying a few days, sometimes staying months or even years.

And we have been commanded to recognize that we are not of this world – that we are only passers-through to a better, more glorious eternity. As such, we should be particularly attuned to our brothers and sisters here and now who are displaced from their homes because of war, weather, economics, or fear.

Consider doing a Bible study this summer that explores the plights of the refugee and displaced peoples. Complement this exploration with a focused  study of a community or nation that is currently facing extreme crisis.

Lord of All Purposes, Guide me into a deeper understanding of your people who are not at home this year because of forced migrations. Lead me to empathize with their displacement and to find refuge in You.  Amen.