7 Reasons Why You Should Care About the Middle East Refugee Crisis

The overwhelming response most of us have to what’s happening in the Middle East is, “I’m just thankful it’s there and not here, and besides, this crisis is too huge; anything I do won’t matter!” While this is, at first glance, a normal response, the fact is, we as Christians have seven reasons to care:

Disturbing facts: There are 3.4 million displaced Iraqis (refugees) and 6 million displaced Syrians within their own borders, and this crisis isn’t going anywhere. This doesn’t take into account refugees scattered world-wide. Although estimates vary on exact numbers, this humanitarian crisis presents Believers with unprecedented opportunities. So, why and how exactly, SHOULD we as the Body of Christ care?

A woman and her toddler making bread in a refugee camp. This is her small business; she sells the delicious bread to help her family. Indigenous Ministries has helped her and many of the families in this camp get on their feet.

1. Christ reminds us that how we treat others in crisis matters, “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ ” Matt. 25:40
2. We are to “…do to others what you would have them do to you…” Matt. 7:12. How would you want the world at large to respond to you and your family as refugees?
3. Our actions influence non-believers as they see our faith in action or not in action; “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” I Peter 2:12
4. Christ is our example; he went out of his way to heal the helpless, sick, and abandoned of society. He didn’t find them repulsive or a bother.
5. While we can’t help all the refugees in this enormous crisis, what we know to do and can do, we should do as unto the Lord. Col. 3:17
6. We, the Church, should set the better example by caring the most, helping the most; more than the secular relief sector. Working with the local, national Church to distribute aid to refugees strengthens the national Church’s position within their local community. When our teams give out relief, the Gospel is shared. Refugees have time on their hands and are willing to listen to the one who is helping their family with more than words.
7. Beyond relief aid, there are sustainable helps (English classes, job training, small business opportunities, etc.) that are helping more and more refugees to get OUT of the refugee status, back to work and back home. Indigenous Ministries is focused on both: relief aid and long term solutions.

We cannot out-give God; trust Him to meet needs as you pray for and help the refugees through the national Church. Our teams visit refugee camps and give out food and supplies as we are able to send resources. Donate online. Thank you on behalf of those who can’t say it to you.