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REFLECTION

The theme for our reflection is, “because you were strangers”. A stranger is a person who does not know, or is not known in, a particular place or community. Moses commanded and reminded the Israelites to be faithful to God and loves strangers because they were also once upon a time strangers in Egypt who endured hardship and were liberated by God. “He (God) executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing. Love the stranger for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Deuteronomy 10:18-19)

A stranger is one who is usually vulnerable because he or she is in a foreign land and knows no one in his or her new environment. The stranger could be attacked or taken advantage of by unsuspecting criminals. Most African immigrants are strangers in Europe, Asia, Middle East, America and other place because of the search for greener pasture and better education. Some of these African strangers are subjected to inhumane treatment because of the colour of their skin. Similarly, Some Africans treat other African strangers in their countries with contempt and xenophobic sentiments. In some instances strangers who are not Africans are also taken advantage of because of the erroneous assumption that Westerners or white-skinned people are rich.

It is expected that believers or God-fearing people will show love and hospitality to those strangers especially those who are vulnerable or could be stranded. Again we are to recall God’s love and faithfulness to us when we ourselves came into this world as strangers. If God has been good and gracious to us by blessing us and leading us to people of good hearts who became our benefactors then we are to do same for others because we were also strangers. Dear friend, forget not God’s faithfulness and love to you when you were a stranger and show gratitude to Him by doing same to another stranger who comes your way, for we are instruments or vessels of God’s blessings and grace in the lives of others. Shalom.

PRAYER

Almighty God, may we not forget our wretched past but remain grateful to You by being good stewards of Your blessings. Strengthen us to respond to the needs of strangers so that through us they may experience Your presence, love and faithfulness. Amen