Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Enhancing the Migrants and Refugees

Bible Reading: St. Luke 10:25-37

Key verse:  
V 37 : “Go and do likewise”

DEVOTION

For today’s devotion let’s meditate on the story of the Good Samaritan. We have heard this story from SundaySchool onwards, but are we following it? 

St. Luke 10:25–37 presents us with the beautiful parable of the Good Samaritan. A lawyer asks Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus responds with a story of a wounded man who is ignored by others but cared for by a Samaritan. The Samaritan did not ask about the man’s nationality, religion, background, or status. He simply saw someone in need and responded with compassion. 

This Gospel speaks directly to our responsibility toward migrants and refugees. Many people leave their homes because of war, violence, poverty, persecution, or the hope for a safer and better life.

Almost all of the Malayalee community left Kerala and came to this country to improve their lives. We cannot forget the kindness showed by the people of this county to our parents, siblings, relatives, and us – the migrants. That little love and consideration shown by the countless good Samaritans in this country helped our folks overcome the poverty, loneliness, fear, discrimination, and uncertainty. 

It is now our turn to be the good Samaritans to others. As Christians, we are called to see beyond labels and recognize the dignity of every human person. Migrants and refugees are not merely strangers or statistics; they are our brothers and sisters, created in the image of God. Like the Good Samaritan, we are called not only to feel compassion but to act. We can welcome newcomers, listen to their stories, offer practical assistance, help them integrate into our communities, and treat them with respect and dignity. 

We can also reach out to the migrants and refugees in India through the various mission and charity projects of the Mar Thoma church. Our differences in language, culture, or nationality should not divide us. Instead, they can enrich our communities and teach us to appreciate the beauty of God's diverse family. Jesus concludes that parable by saying, “Go and do likewise.” That was a command not just for the lawyer–but for all of us to follow. 

 

PRAYER

"Lord, make us become like a good Samaritan with a compassionate heart that cares for the needs of the migrants and refugees that live amongst us. Amen.”

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Am I a good Samaritan?


Dr. Shibu Joseph
Epiphany Mar Thoma Church, New York.

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