June 20 is World Refugee Day.
Scripture tells us that almost from the beginning of time, there have been people who have been forced to flee their homes. But what about those who never have to flee? What are the obligations and responsibilities of those of us fortunate enough to be safe, comfortable, and secure where we live? How ought we to respond?
In the gospel of Matthew 25: 25-36, Jesus teaches that when we welcome strangers, we welcome him: "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me."
Jenn McIntyre is a student at Wycliffe College, and Director of Romero House, a unique community located in the city of Toronto, which is composed of refugees, staff, volunteers, and neighbours. Writing for the Wycliffe blog, Jenn reflects on what it is to be a refugee.
