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Walking with migrants and refugees - A divine mandate
In light of the current global events, the poignant message of "God walks with his people," chosen for this year's World Day of Migrants and Refugees, is especially meaningful. It serves as a reminder of God's consoling presence. It’s a somber call to prayer, reflection and action, on behalf of those compelled to leave their homes in search of safety, dignity, and a brighter future.
The synodal path,( the common journey of the People of God), takes on profound sense in the context of migration, it echoing the biblical exodus and the struggle of modern migrants. Just as Just as Moses led the Israelites out of oppression, today's migrants flee from violence, insecurity, discrimination, and lack of opportunities. Their journey is plagued with obstacles, similar to the Jews' hardship in the desert; confronting thirst, hunger, and uncertainty.
Yet, in every exodus, there is a constant: God's presence. As He leads and accompanies his people, He offers a ray of hope and redemption. Deuteronomy 31:6, quoted by Pope Francis, tells us that "the Lord your God goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you." This divine companionship extends beyond historical narratives to our modern reality, where millions walk hazardous routes in pursuit of safety and dignity.
A call to Compassionate Walk
As vocal advocate for rights of the migrant, Pope Francis urges us to move beyond mere tolerance and towards genuine integration compassion and understanding a genuine walk. He tells us, "The Lord is present in every human being, and ‘walking’ with migrants is more than a humanitarian act; it is a spiritual encounter with Christ. In addition to compassion, the current crisis calls for concrete action.
Dear brothers and sisters, on this day dedicated to migrants and refugees, let us unite in prayer for all those who have had to leave their land in search of dignified living conditions. Let us consider their suffering and the Divine presence that accompanies them. Let us take action, inspired by the confidence that God walks with his people, and ensures no one is forsaken. let us embrace the four verbs in our approach to migration: Welcome, Protect, Promote, and Integrate, which demand personal involvement and empathy. In doing so, we acknowledge God's presence among these vulnerable people and renew our commitment to building a more compassionate society.
Read the message of the Pope for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2024 at the following link:
Benard Mukeku is a priest of the Quebec Foreign Mission Society. He was born in Machakos, Kenya. After a period of pastoral ministry in Kenya, he was sent on a mission to Cambodia.
