Last Saturday evening, I had the privilege of attending the celebration for Justice for Our Neighbors (JFON) which was held at the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, here in Grand Rapids. Before we shared a meal together, guests were invited to tour the art exhibit, entitled: “Or Does it Explode?” The title of the exhibit comes from Harlem, a poem written by Langston Hughes. The poem ponders what happens when a dream is deferred. The exhibit told the story of lives that have been changed as children seek a place of safety outside of their homeland. The pictures clearly communicated that a refugee camp can house many families, but a camp is not a home, and the oppression and violence many have fled is still a part of their lives.
The guest speaker was Bishop Minerva Carcaño, from the Western Jurisdiction. Her ministry has included the care of those who seek refuge and a safe haven in these United States. Before her message, guests at the dinner heard a song from the Angel Choir of Grand Rapids Restoration United Methodist Church. The members there are from central Africa and have come to the United States to begin a new life. We also heard the stories of three persons who were assisted by JFON. Each person fled their native land because they were being persecuted. With the assistance of JFON, they were able to clear the complicated legal hurdles that exist.
Bishop Carcaño shared her own story and connection to Michigan with us. She also spoke about how JFON is making a difference in, not only the lives of clients, but also in the lawyers and volunteers who seek to meet these refugees where they are help them to fulfill their dreams. Bishop Carcaño shared that it is our love for others that has made and is making all the difference for those who come to JFON. It is a ministry whose seeds were planted nearly 20 years ago. And it is bearing fruit for individuals and families who have become citizens.
It was a blessing to hear the stories of a few clients, learn the history of this vital and transforming ministry here in Michigan and be a part of the celebration of the journey, thus far. JFON is just one way we are making a difference in the lives of persons in need, whether they are neighbors or strangers among us. I want to close with these words. They were printed on the t-shirt of a couple of Angel Choir members. “Keep God first and let the blessings, flow.” May it be so for all of us as we seek to live out the Great Commission. And Amen.