Helping "Foreign Residents" to Serve Jehovah With Rejoicing

SHOWING LOVE TO REFUGEES

"The love of God" compels us to show love to one another, especially in dire situations.  (Read 1 John 3:17, 18)  When famine threatened Judean Christians in the first century, the congregation  organized help for them.  (Acts 11:28, 29) The apostles Paul and Peter also exhorted Christians to be hospitable to one another.  (Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9) If Christians are to welcome visiting brothers, how much more should they welcome fellow believers whose lives are in danger or who have been persecuted for their faith! -Read Proverbs 3:27.

Recently, thousands of Jehovah's Witnesses -men, women, and children-had to flee conflict and persecution  in eastern Ukraine. Tragically, some were killed. But most of them were taken in by their spiritual brothers elsewhere in Ukraine, and many others were accommodated by fellow Witnesses in Russia.  In both countries, they remain politically neutral, being"no part of the world," and continue zealously "declaring the good news of the word." -John 15:19; Acts 8:4.

HELPING REFUGEES TO STRENGTHEN THEIR FAITH

While some people are displaced within their own country, many others are thrust into a totally unfamiliar environment in a new land. Governments may provide some food, clothing, and shelter, but familiar foods may be unavailable. Refugees from warm lands may encounter cold weather for the first time and may not know how to dress for it. If they come from a rural area, they may  be at a loss about how to use modern household appliances. 

Some governments have programs to help refugees adjust to their new circumstances. However, often within months , refugees may be expected to support themselves. The transition can be overwhelming.  Imagine trying to learn a new language and to adapt  to new laws and expectations regarding manners, punctuality, taxes, bill paying, school attendance, and child discipline-all at once!  Can you patiently and respectfully help brothers and sisters who face such challenges? -Philippians 2:3, 4. 

Further, authorities have at times made it difficult for our brothers who are refugees or deny our brothers asylum if they refuse to accept employment that requires them to miss meetings.  Frightened and vulnerable, a few brothers have given in to such pressures. Therefore, it is urgent to meet our refugee brothers as soon as possible after their arrival.  They need to see that we care about them. Our compassion and practical help can strengthen their faith. -Proverbs 12:25; 17:17.  

Next time: GIVING REFUGEES PRACTICAL HELP 

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