As a pastor, one of the most moving experiences in ministry for me, has been to visit some of the asylum seekers at one of the detention centres. Sitting and talking with these refugees from Iran, Somalia, Myanmar. Many have come on boats, seeking a better life. Fleeing the persecution from their countries. Regardless of where you stand politically on the matter, your hearts got to break for those that are fleeing from such persecution. The Bible tells us in James 1:27, what God the Father considers to be pure and genuine religion is this. “Take care of orphans and widows in their suffering and to keep ones self from being corrupted by the world.” In a secular age when many religious people are persecuted, I think one of the best Christian witnesses we can provide is caring for those that are fleeing persecution. Caring for orphans and widows. Caring for the fatherless. And not just in our detention centres. They’re in our neighbourhoods. They’re in our schools. They’re even in our workplaces. The Bible tells us to make the most of every opportunity. And let our conversations always be seasoned and full of grace. Maybe you can take some time to volunteer, reach out. Try and give someone a hand rather than just a hand out. Sometimes the time you give to sit with people is the most important thing you can give. Have a look around your local community and see where you can connect with someone.