This month my team and I are in one of the most important parts of the world when it comes to current events. We are at the most popular destination for refugees coming from Turkey into Europe. Upon arrival in Lesvos, I had expected to be somewhat of a hero as I thought the camp would receive many boats of refugees for us to help. So far, what we have experienced has been different than what I expected.
I have been on the island of Lesvos, Greece for just under a week now and I have not had contact with a single refugee. I began to feel a little discouraged when after my first shift at the camp we did not receive a single boat. I wanted to come here and make a real difference in this ongoing crisis that is impacting the whole world. How do I do that if I do not get to meet any of the people?
My team and I have been praying every morning specifically for the refugees and today I asked Him how we could be making a difference if we do not have any contact with the people. I found His response pretty incredible.
“Use this time to change the atmosphere of this whole island by being in constant prayer wherever you go. Take ownership of this place. Take advantage of the time you have now. When refugees do come they will be instantly impacted when they step foot on this island.”
Prior to this month, I spent time in prayer. I felt God telling me prayer will be a key aspect of this month, but I did not understand it would be what this month is all about. Many times I forget what kind of battle we are really fighting. ??When the battle is more a spiritual battle than a physical one, praying is how we overcome the battle. When we pray, we are invading enemy territory and breaking down their walls. The people who travel through our camp are gaining more than dry clothes, food, and water (although these are much needed). At the end of the day, these people are looking for something no person or country can give them.
One prayer at a time, I am changing the places my feet step. These refugees may not know it, but their Father is waiting for them here. His rest, peace, hope, and joy they are searching for is waiting for them. Whether I am here or not when it happens, I know what we are doing this month will allow these people to find what they are truly in need of: a relationship with the Father.
