Chairman’s Note…
About a month ago, UNHCR hosted an appreciation lunch to recognise volunteers’ (partners of UNHCR) contribution and partnership in helping the refugees. We were given an update that there are now people from 15 different nations registered with them. The refugees had fled their countries due to political, religious or economical reasons. Out of about 90,000 registered refugees, 80% are from the country of Myanmar. Within the Myanmarese group, it is sub divided into two main group, i.e. the Chin and the Rohingyas, with other sub divisions in between. Many left their country due to political, ethical and economical deprivation.
It’s quite impossible to prevent the inflows of these people as our borders are quite porous as it is easily accessible by and land and sea. The crucial issue is not about the refugees’ demography but the pertinent question that we should ask as a Church acting as a body of Christ on earth is “how can we be relevant to these down trodden/ deprived and marginalise group of people”?
Some come from the most Unreached or least reach People group (UPG/LPG)… groups that God will want us to show equal concern. Reflecting on the O/T time, He has to constantly reminded the Israelites, His chosen race, to care for the widows, the fatherless and the aliens in their midst. (Lev 19:33-34/ Deut 10:17-20/ Zec7 : 8-10)
Interestingly, a recent news paper article featured for several days, a specific group of refugees begging at the very town we’re situated. (The Star 6th / 7th and 9th April). Interviews highlighted their predicament. This is the same people group that MMK is currently engaging with. Some of their kids are attending the refugee’s school, and we’re seeking ways to elevate their livelihood.
In the church knowing the truth of God is only half the story. Like Isaiah’s Chapter 1, it reminded the people of Judah during the pinnacle of their rule, that the people though religious and right, should learn to do what is right! To seek justice, encourage the oppressed, defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow (VV16-17). The point here is that real and vital faith is not about being right or religious, but is about our relationship with God that produces righteousness.
I suppose it’s good to be concerned about being right, but being right is at best only half the issue. What God cares about most is that are we righteous.
