Article December 20, 1993 Issue

Is there really enough for everybody?

As refugees seek a homeland, our prayers can free us from fear of loss and also show us how to welcome them.

Elfi Hinz

Original in German

Something that has became especially noticeable in recent times is the increasing ethnic violence, racism, and radicalism in a number of countries around the world. Such behavior may be based on fear, thoughts of lack, false pride, self-righteousness, hate.

Conditions can be exacerbated by certain news media, which in my country sometimes emphasize hatred toward foreigners, open violence against people from other countries, the abuse of political asylum, and so forth. If we allow our views to be defined by such reports or attitudes, our love for our fellow beings may grow very cold indeed. But there is an alternative that will improve the situation. This alternative is prayer to free ourselves from such unchristian feelings, and prayer for our nations and for refugees. Such prayer will support efforts to find solutions that benefit everyone. And the Bible provides invaluable inspiration as we pray.

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