When folks run from their homes, they are either running away from something or running to something. Which one makes a difference.
People running from danger seek the nearest safe place. Those running to something will keep running until they reach their destination.
We can help those running away by providing shelter as near as safely possible.
Some runners-to are headed for destinations that won’t be as welcoming as they hope. Angry teens might imagine life on their own to be more fun than it works out in reality. Distant family members can have problems of their own. A different community may be hostile to newcomers.
Lord, we pray for those on the run. May those running from disaster quickly find safe shelter. May other runners seek Your will for their future–here on earth and for all eternity. Show the rest of us how to help: rescuing when necessary, redirecting when practical, restoring relationships when possible, reviving troubled souls in Your name.
For the sake of Your name, O LORD, revive them. In Your righteousness bring their souls out of trouble (based on Psalm 143:11).
