Greece:EuroRelief Team Update #2
John 10:9-11
“Don’t be the bouncer.” This was my main takeaway from a devotional we heard this week. In John 10, Jesus describes himself as the good shepherd, laying down his life for the sheep. The speaker emphasized how we are the sheep, but at times we play the role of shepherd as we are called to care for and serve those around us. Within the context of this trip, serving in the refugee camp, we are also called not to be the bouncer. It is not our job to be the judge and jury, determining who deserves aid. We are here to love and serve, meeting the physical needs of desperate people, regardless of their background and belief. This week has greatly challenged me to serve unconditionally, and this is a lesson I want to bring home with me. I am called to serve the one in front of me, regardless of who they are or what they have done. I am not the judge, I am not the bouncer; I am simply obeying the good shepherd.
This week our team has been able to be in camp each day and serve within many different projects. We have been on distribution, giving out new slides to every adult in camp. It is such a simple thing, a new pair of shoes, but to those receiving them it is a great blessing we are able to be a part of. I was called an “angel” by many refugees when distributing. We serve in foodlines, giving out food, water, and milk daily to every household. My favourite duty is milk duty, because the children just surround you and are so joyful. Lance and James were able to help with many maintenance tasks, and Lucy and I served in the women’s community center. We also have served in new arrivals, where refugees who have only been in the camp a few days can come and receive one new set of clothing and shoes.
I found this week to be sobering and impactful on my heart. Each sweet interaction I have with a child, I remember the hardships this child and their family has been through. Maybe this child has lost their home, lost family members, or suffered immense trauma on the journey here. Each new arrival I interact with, I remember that I am giving them their only clean clothes, their only pair of good shoes. I am grateful to be here serving, and so grateful for the ways that God is opening my eyes and heart to the suffering of others around the world.
Please be in prayer for our team: we need energy! The days are hot and long, and at times really emotionally challenging. Pray that we can continue to connect with the other Eurorelief volunteers. We have only one week remaining at camp, so we want to continue to use our time to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those around us. Pray that we can use our time well, striving to show the kindness of Christ and have gospel-centered conversations. We pray that our time at camp, though short, will have lasting impacts on those we have met.
