Finding Family in Unexpected Places

Recently, we were invited to a traditional, home-cooked meal hosted by our friend Ambrose*, who came to France after fleeing his home country in Africa. He looks much younger than he did when he first arrived a couple of years ago - a result of becoming much healthier after finding stability and care here. Thus far, in just a short period of time, he has been granted refugee status, worked for a year, and received housing. As is often the case, the job that he has here does not reflect the same area of expertise that he held back home, but he is so sincerely grateful for his provisions.

We Are Fed

When he invited us into his home, Ambrose referred to us as his family many times over. He lavished us with kind thanks, food with the help of a friend (which he did not partake in until after all of his guests not merely ate a first helping, but had their fill, as is his culture's custom), gifts, stories of God's faithfulness, and many passionate prayers.

As we finished the meal, our friend shared with us that the same God who has watched over him and guided his every step takes care of us too. The persecution and difficulties he has experienced are amongst the worst scenarios imaginable, yet I have met few people so full of faith and the joy of the Lord as this man. As he talked, he held up his backpack, saying “this is all I had when I arrived in France. But everything around you (a place to live, friends, food) is what I have now, thanks to God through you all.”

Ambrose is now working with a native French person to form his own organization to also serve refugees, people with disabilities, and the elderly. He doesn't want anyone to feel the loneliness he has experienced, but hopes for everyone to feel belonging, rooted ultimately in his belonging and belovedness in Christ which has carried him through so much difficulty.

CLICK to learn more about the work in Lille, France

*Pseudonym

Photo: Brett & Becca McNew enjoy time with their friend, Ambrose