Over two thousand years ago, a young father was warned in a dream: ‘Get up…take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.’ (Matthew 2:13b) Joseph did as he was told. He took Mary and Jesus to find a place of refuge, not knowing when it would be safe to return home.
As we celebrate Christmas this week – full of hope and joy and celebration – let’s not forget this part of the story. Let’s remember and pray for those in a similar position today – people fleeing war in Sudan, Myanmar and elsewhere; North Korean refugees in China who are at risk of being forcibly repatriated; Cubans who sadly see no future for themselves in their homeland; and many others displaced around the world.
And may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. Amen.
Please pray:
Wonderful Counsellor, you are unmatched in your guidance and compassion. We lift up those who have fled their homes, under gunfire or airstrikes, hunger or persecution, or many traumatising experiences. Bring healing and strength, we pray. Amen.
Mighty God, in your power, put the perpetrators of injustice in their place. Bring an end to the conflicts and oppression which have forced so many from their homes and countries. Amen.
Everlasting Father, comfort and provide for those who have lost so much, and whose struggles are not yet over. We pray especially for refugees and asylum seekers who are at risk of being returned to almost certain danger. Surround them with special protection. Amen.
Prince of Peace, your kingdom will never pass away. Make a way for peace on earth, even where there seems to be no way. Bring justice, even where this seems impossible. Shine your everlasting light into the darkest places, this Christmastime and always. Amen.