Community Spotlight: Venezuelans
Today, we walk alongside Venezuelan refugees and migrants.
In recent years, millions of Venezuelans have left their homeland due to economic hardship, political instability and persecution, and humanitarian challenges. Many have traveled great distances in search of safety, stability, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. Along the way, they have shown remarkable perseverance, carrying hope for a better future despite tremendous uncertainty.
Today, we pray for Venezuelan families and for all who continue their journey in search of peace, opportunity, and belonging.
Scripture: Luke 10:36-37 – “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?… Jesus told him, ‘Go and do likewise.'”
Reflection
When asked, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus answered with a story.
The Good Samaritan crossed barriers of ethnicity, culture, and long-held prejudice to care for someone in need. While others passed by, the Samaritan drew near. Compassion became action.
Jesus then turned the question around. Instead of asking, “Who deserves my love?” He asked, “Will you choose to become a neighbor?”
Every day we encounter people whose stories are different from our own. Some have crossed oceans or borders. Others have crossed neighborhoods, languages, or cultures. Christ invites us to move beyond fear or familiarity and to meet one another with mercy.
Neighborliness begins when we choose to draw near.
Pilgrim’s Prayer
God of mercy, thank You for loving us when we were in need and for teaching us what it means to be a neighbor. Today we pray for Venezuelan families and for all who are seeking safety and opportunity. Strengthen them for the journey ahead, surround them with compassionate communities, and provide hope for the future. Help us to notice those around us, to cross barriers with humility, and to love others with the same mercy You have shown us. Amen.
Pilgrim’s Blessing
May Christ give you eyes to notice those who are hurting, courage to cross dividing lines, and a heart that chooses mercy over comfort. May you go as a neighbor, reflecting the love that has first been shown to you.