How to Help in Afghanistan
As is the case with many of you, we have been watching the reports coming out of Afghanistan with a combination of heartbreak, frustration, anger, confusion, and a myriad of other emotions. There's no easy solution for what we're witnessing, and while many are focusing on who was wrong and more wrong in politics, there's a better way for us to respond immediately. Here's how we can have an immediate impact, show love and give GOOD NEWS in Afghanistan.
PRAY
Pray for the hundreds of Christians' lives that are in danger. Reports are coming in of workers hiding together as Taliban leadership threatens their lives. There isn't an easy exit and many will end up giving their lives in this climate. Let's pray for them and for God to be glorified through them as they prove their devotion to their calling. I'm praying for supernatural exits so the work they've been doing will ultimately continue. Pray for these workers as you are led. They desperately need it!
Pray for relief organizations. Here in Houston, several organizations we work with are already receiving refugees from Afghanistan. The need for resources and volunteers will be overwhelming in the coming weeks. Please pray these organizations would have what they need and the wisdom they need to welcome those leaving everything for the hope of a better tomorrow.
Pray for the Afghan people. Their own country is suddenly not even safe for them. Pray for the gains in Gospel exposure, women's empowerment, and development to not be lost forever. Pray for peace. Pray for hope. Pray for redemption. These are people loved by God who are desperate for GOOD NEWS. Let's pray that somehow they find it.
This is by no means an exhaustive list. Please pray as you are led for this incredibly difficult situation especially for leaders faced with impossible assignments right now.
GIVE
We have set up a fund that we will distribute to our partners on the front lines of welcoming refugees, serving refugees beyond the welcome, and eventually help on the ground when banks are back open, and Lord-willing better stability exists. The needs for everything from mattresses to toiletries to meals are severe. We also have an opportunity to support a local church focused on ministering to Afghans. Every donation will be used to help people just like the ones from the picture in the airplane to receive help and support to start their new life. We can give GOOD NEWS to these people in desperate need.
If you're in the Houston area, you can mobilize your church, small group, organization, or even your workplace to collect welcome kit supplies. Click here for more information. If you would like for us to pick up what you collect, we would be happy to do that in the greater Houston area. (you can reply to this email for assistance)
If you're not in Houston, there are great organizations in all the refuge cities that are welcoming refugees, and they all need help. Feel free to contact us if you need more information.
VOLUNTEER
Different organizations are receiving volunteers to help those coming from Afghanistan. Here are a few to get you started:
Houston Welcomes Refugees (There is an orientation for those wanting to join welcome and/or move-in teams and more.)
YMCA International Services (This form is for ongoing volunteer opportunities but will also be useful for the immediate needs of incoming Afghani people.)
Image provided by: Getty Images
Image provided by: sbs.com.au
Memo: Afghanistan
As always, please ask any questions or let us know if you have key contacts in any of these places that we can connect with. Together we are making a difference! Thank you for taking the time to read through all of this. Thank you for your support!