In the aftermath of Hurricane Kat- rina’s devastation of southern America, displaced families and individuals were often referred to in the media as ‘refugees’. For some, this term was viewed as insulting, so it prompted reporters to scramble for another word that would not be perceived as negative. They decided on the word evacuees.

In actuality the word refugee is filled with hope. One dictionary defines it as “one who flees in search of refuge, as in times of war, political oppression, or religious persecution.” Refugee comes from the word refuge, which speaks of safety, protection and care for the hurting. It speaks of a safe haven in a storm filled world.

For those who have been battered by the storms, tragedies and disasters of life, refuge is what they long for most. They may seek shelter in the arms of God, who alone can give us refuge and who longs to cover us and protect us and preserve us.

Jesus said to the broken people of His day: “How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings” (Matt. 23:37). He continues to offer refuge to the hurting hearts of our day if we will but seek His care and trust His heart.

Author

Bill Crowder

Topics

Our Daily Bread