We made it to Paris…well, a city right outside of Paris! Upon arrival, I was shocked at how culturally diverse the city is. We’ve been meeting people from all over the world, of varying religions, and I absolutely love it! We’ve been blessed with an amazing home to stay in for the month; and I’m getting acclimated to the constant aroma of great food mixed with cigarette smoke and exhaust as we travel the city streets.
Now for the important info. Why are we in Paris; it’s not in the 10/40 window? I’m glad you asked! Fairly recently, there have been numerous men, women, and children fleeing from their home countries, many of which are in the region of the 10/40 window, seeking refuge in the UK. However, a majority have been denied entry into the UK, and have migrated to Paris, with little to no temporary housing available. It is estimated that as many as 50-100 people are arriving as refugees in Paris daily, stuck in transition with few resources.
We don’t have a formal ministry host while in Paris, but we have a great opportunity to work with the refugees that are here. We have the privilege to see each person, collectively deemed, “refugee,” as the unique individual that they are. We get to engage, love, and be intentional about sharing our Father’s heart with each person. Another huge plus is that we have the opportunity to share the Gospel with individuals who have migrated to Paris from nations that we would otherwise, not be able to share in. Though we have come with the intent to work with the men, women, and children, who are in Paris as refugees, the Lord has clearly been showing our team that ministry among refugees is not exclusively why we are here. Throughout the city, we see great need and longing for the Father’s love. We’ve been discussing the heartbreaking irony of a city deemed “the city of love,” not knowing the true and unconditional love of our Heavenly Father. So, in response, we are intentional to take advantage of each chance to share it…be it talking to and praying with a Muslim teen in the airport, or worshiping with locals in the park. My heart is that ministry is a lifestyle, not something that’s “formal,” that we step into and out of, but rather perpetual in nature.
Thank you all so much for your prayers and support. As we continue our month here in France, our team would greatly appreciate prayer to build relationships here, to remain present and focused, to keep in step with the Lord, for wisdom, for boldness, and for protection.
Be sure to check back in next week to hear about how ministry at our ministry site goes!
