Strangers
Scripture Reading — Hebrews 11:8-12
By faith [Abraham] made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise.
—Hebrews 11:9
When I was a student, I spent a year in Paris, France. The rich culture and beautiful architecture made the experience unfor-gettable. However, this was also my first experience in a foreign country with a different language and customs. I quickly learned that adapting to life in a new setting is not always a delightful adventure.
During my first week I was frustrated because I couldn’t find milk at the local supermarket. I later realized it was packaged differently and located far from where I expected it to be. Looking back, I chuckle at my frustration. But the deeper truth was the realization of how different I was from everyone around me: I was a stranger.
In a few weeks, I found it easier to adapt to my surroundings. But today, after years of working with traveling workers and immigrants, I know it can take a long time for fears and stress to subside.
People who cross borders are not the only strangers in this world, though. All believers in Christ are strangers or sojourners here, moving toward a destination beyond this world. While we are created to live here and care about the creation God has given us, we can also engage in and enjoy the adventure of discovering God’s kingdom and all that he has in store for us.
Lord, stretch us to grow and keep discovering the wonders of your kingdom while you call us to live for you in this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Jason Zuidema
Jason Zuidema lives in Repentigny, Quebec, with his wife, Anna, and their three children. He is a graduate of Calvin Theological Seminary and currently serves as executive director of the North American Maritime Ministry Association. He is the author of a special Seafarers edition of Today devotions published by ReFrame Media in 2012.
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