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February 3, 2008

The World Comes to St. Louis

It was Missions Sunday at church today, which brought a closer look at what is going on in St. Louis. Although missions tends to have a worldwide aspect, as it should, the world also includes St. Louis...yes, it's true. We heard from missionaries that are working in Welston, north of U. City, to help men get trained as carpenters after they have spent a significant time in prison. We heard from a man who runs a furniture store specifically for immigrants, many of whom are refugees from Africa, and other parts of the world. We heard from a woman who helps to run a day care in North City. There were others that came along from many organizations, it was really good.
One fact that I learned is that St. Louis is the second city in the nation for immigrants...didn't know that. I've always heard about Bosnians, Africans, Mexicans, Vietnamese, Chinese and others who have come to St. Louis, but didn't realize that we are that welcoming of a community. I love that. It is through relationships with people from other nations that we get to know the world, and become aware of what's going on. These are God's people, just like anyone else in my neighborhood, I think it is so cool that they are here.
Ironically, or maybe not so much, today's sermon was about faith in Christ. I can't imagine the faith in Christ it must take to pick up your family and move to another country where you don't speak the language, don't know the customs, don't know where to go for help...oh, and don't have any money to make things happen. That's the kind of faith it must have taken many people to get here. Maybe things are so bad in their country that it's worth it to take a risk...I don't know. What I do know is that we are so blessed to live in a country where the opportunities are abundant. Looking to move somewhere else isn't even a consideration for most of us, in fact, the thought of going to some other land is crazy. Who would want to do that? Seeing as how this is the case, it seems to me that we should look for ways to be a welcoming home to so many that have nothing, who are looking for a way out of hard times...and therefore come to America.
As I think about this I am reminded of God's blessings upon me. I didn't choose to be born an American; and, in addition, in a home where all my needs were met in abundance. I had nothing to do with that. I just came into the world safe and warm, and provided for. It makes me ask the question, "What can I do to help other people feel the same way?" I know I wouldn't have that perspective if weren't for my faith in Christ's work on the cross. That may not be the case for others, but I tend to think about me and my needs way too much. I know that Christ entered into my life at a time when thoughts of Him only existed when I needed help, or I needed to bargain with Him for something like a pair of Guess jeans or a new Swatch watch. All that to say, it is He who takes away my self focus and who gives me a desire to help others in need.

| By Nathan Gemayel | 3:49 PM

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