From Ben – 13 September 2015
From Ben’s Desk (13 September)
In history there have been some defining moments captured by a photographer that have become iconic images that have stirred people to action. There was the photo from the Vietnam War of an 11 year old girl fleeing naked from her burning village, and now there is the picture of the 4 year old boy lying dead face down on a beach off Greece, drowned while trying to escape the war in Syria. The war in Syria races on displacing millions of people who are fleeing the conflict. Thousands are trying to reach safety in European countries. This is causing one of the biggest movements of displaced people since the holocaust of the Second World War.
If ever there was a time to respond and pray, it is now. Our leadership wants to invite you to pray and give towards the relief of these needy people through Barnabas Fund. We must understand that the Christian refugees are in a desperate position. Many of the huge refugee camps are in countries that are overwhelmingly Muslim. The Christians are victimised and persecuted in these camps, therefore they find shelter in churches or Christian homes with the result that they are not registered as refugees. They are just misplaced people. Barnabas Fund seeks these Christians out and works to alleviate their needs. Barnabas Fund has worked out a safe escape route form Syria and Iraq, called Operation Safe Haven.
Our leadership is discussing other suitable responses to this epic crisis and will keep you informed. This is the time to act and show the true heart of Christ for others. James 1:26-27