As we gather around our tables this Thanksgiving, let us take a moment to reflect on the true essence of this holiday: gratitude. While we celebrate with our loved ones, there are countless individuals around the world who have faced unimaginable hardships and have found solace and hope in new lands. These are refugees who have fled their homes in search of safety and freedom.

Refugees bring with them stories of resilience, courage, and an unwavering spirit. Despite the challenges they have faced, they remain profoundly grateful for the opportunities and kindness extended to them by their host communities. Their gratitude is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of compassion and empathy.

This Thanksgiving, let us open our hearts and minds to the experiences of refugees. Let us acknowledge their struggles and celebrate their contributions to our communities. By doing so, we not only honor their journey but also enrich our own lives with the values of diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect. Even then, their generosity transcends all understanding.

Reya's Story

Seeing it is late; my Swiss friend suggests we pray together. As we finish, Reya looks at me, her large dark eyes pensive, "I am so sad that I didn't know that I was going to meet you today, Whitney, because every time I meet someone that I love, I want to give them a gift. And I don't have a gift for you. And while we were praying, I asked Jesus to give me a gift for you."

I can feel my eyes tearing up. This young woman's generous spirit is so pure and sweet.

She continues shyly, "So I asked Jesus for a gift for you, and he gave me a picture of you with your face shining... I see Jesus in the faces of all of us around the table, but I see and hear Jesus in your voice."

Let us remember that Thanksgiving is not just about the abundance on our tables, but about the abundance of love, compassion, and gratitude in our hearts. Together, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of their background, can find a place to call home and a community that embraces them with open arms.

“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” – Philippians 2:4 (NIV)

This Thanksgiving, let us be thankful for the resilience of refugees and the opportunity to stand in solidarity with them. In doing so, we honor the true spirit of Thanksgiving and reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Would you prayerfully consider making a gift to ensure that Reya and others like her continue to receive healing and recovery as she experiences Jesus every day.

Many thanks to our faithful and generous financial partners who make it possible for our team to show up in the lives of refugees and asylum seekers every day!