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Mexico highway 190 passes in front of FFHM’s home for needy children in Oaxaca, Mexico. For the last six months or so, hundreds of migrants from Central America and South America have walked down that highway making their way to the United States. Many are motivated to make the long trek by fear of dying in their homeland, oppression, economic downturns or simply a hope of a better life. I see mostly men, but also a lot of women and children, almost everyday, walking, walking, walking north, down Mexico highway 190. Here is a lament for them.

Oh, Sovereign God, we lift our voices in lament, For those who flee, in anguish, their homelands rent. In lands of strife, where war’s cruel embrace, Forces hearts to abandon, seeking a safer space.

In shadows of oppression, where fear takes its toll, Families shattered, dreams crushed, a heavy toll. They embark on a journey, through the unknown, Desperate souls, seeking a place to call their own.

Through perilous seas and treacherous lands they roam, Hoping for refuge, a glimpse of a welcoming home. Children, wide-eyed, their innocence scarred, By the harshness of a world deeply marred.

Oh, God of mercy, hear our solemn cry, For those who suffer, beneath the unforgiving sky. May your compassion guide them through the night, A beacon of hope, a source of eternal light.

Grant strength to the weary, solace to the pained, A haven of peace, where love is regained. In the midst of chaos, let justice prevail, And may the winds of freedom fill each sail.

May nations unite with hearts compassionate, To ease the burdens of those in a dire state. In this lament, we seek your divine grace, For a world where all can find a dwelling place.

Oh, Comforter Divine, embrace those in despair, Bring healing to wounds, and answer every prayer. In the symphony of sorrow, let hope resound, Until every refugee’s feet find solid ground.

“I was a stranger, and you took me in.” Matthew 25:35

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Lord God, help us to remember those who tonight will go to sleep unfed and unwelcome,
strangers in foreign lands, people who have fled for their lives and are far from their homes.
We lift up to you those who are escaping persecution and conflict, having fled death, torture or ruthless exploitation.
So many carry wounds, mental and physical. So many have suffered greatly.
Lord Jesus, give us more of your compassion for their plight, soften our hearts to their situation,
and help us follow your lead in seeking justice and mercy on their behalf.
We pray for an end to the wars, poverty and human rights abuses that drive desperate people to become refugees in the first place.

We give thanks for people working in troubled countries and ask for more of
your blessing so we can bring life, dignity and hope to those that remain.
We thank you that you are Lord of all the earth and all its people are loved by you.
We pray these things in the name of your Son who loves us and gave his life for us. For all of us.