For weeks a caravan of migrants has traveled North in hopes for a brighter tomorrow for themselves and their families. Looking to escape from violence in their countries, they left their homes behind to find shelter in the United States. However, the chaos continued when they reached the border of Tijuana and Southern California. Tensions rose as events became more violent, and eventually tear gas was used by the United States military to suppress the outrage. As the events continue to unfold, many Christians are wondering how to respond. There seem to be voices on every side shouting ideas on top of more opinions, but this is the perfect time to allow our relationship with Christ to transform our hearts and our minds. Here is a list of ways to respond to the migrant crisis at the border.

 

 

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1. Empathy

One of the most powerful tools God has given to each of us is the ability to empathize with one another. Two words can make all the difference in the world to someone: Me too. Some Christians living in America may not understand what it is like growing up in fear and violence. We probably do not know how it feels to walk for weeks and lose all hope at the last minute. But, chances are, we have lost hope before. We have felt hurt before. We can all identify with feelings of abandonment and despair. Taking on the perspective of those who are hurting and outcast is the beginning of compassion.

 

2. Serve

The events of the migrant caravan are taking place on the border at Tijuana, and Mission Discovery has been actively serving in the area for over 20 years. Mission teams build homes for families in the nearby town of Tecate, Mexico. You are invited to help love on our neighbors by providing a home for them.

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3. Look at Scripture

A constant theme throughout the Bible is God’s care and protection of the oppressed. The entire message of salvation hinges on the idea that every person is in need and Christ came to defend humankind. Here are a couple of verses that point to God’s love for those in need:

Isaiah 1:17: Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.

Proverbs 31:8-9: Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.

 

4. Pray

It is vital that those who are suffering receive the prayer they need. Please pray that they see God in the midst of their situation and they can obtain the help they need for them and their family. But we cannot stop there. We must also pray for our leaders to make decisions that honor God.

1 Timothy 2: 1-4I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

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