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I am coaching someone who recently took an assignment in a new location. She arrived 6 weeks ago. She doesn't speak or read the national language yet. I saw a post on FB where she asked a bunch of expats to please help her understand the recently passed government regulations.
Wherever God has placed you right now, you are probably already praying about how you can assist your neighbors, the elderly, family and friends. As you do so, I ask that you please also consider how you can be a blessing to immigrants, refugees, minority language speakers and other expats who may not speak the local language very well and may be feeling like they cannot get information about current events reliably nor in a timely manner and they may not know how to get help in a time of need.
Feeling “in the dark” and not knowing how to get help are scary feelings.
Translating for someone or helping them have information is a real service to those who are not able to understand what is going on around them. If you’re bilingual, help someone feel more at ease by helping them know what is going on in their community/city. If you’re in contact with immigrants or minority groups, but not bilingual, you can help by explaining things to them using simplified terms.
Show compassion through acts of love and service. This might have to be in person in an emergency, but so much can also be done even from afar. Translate for people. Help them to be in the know. Let them know you are able to help if they have an emergency. Send emails, make phone calls, write notes to let others know you are thinking of them. Drop off food at their door. Consider reaching out to one person or family a day through email, phone, or some other way to let them know you are thinking about them and praying for them. Pray for, listen to them, and help them process.
Go be the light of Christ in this weary world and spread His love.
Reach out to your neighbors.
Reach out to older people.
Reach out to your fellow laborers in the field.
Reach out to immigrants, refugees and minority groups in your country.
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