Deuteronomy 24:18

Jesus’ call for us to love our neighbours as ourselves includes people of other faiths, even if this puts us at risk of danger and shame. The Bible is clear that at times, the love of Christ may call us to suffer, even die for the sake of the gospel. Yet still we realize that our love should reach out to all people, including those scattered around the world.

The story of Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi, is one of love, hope and redemption. Through a series of challenging circumstances, these women found the need to relocate to a faraway land. This story is one repeating itself throughout the world today. Whether we are the ones on the move or those welcoming new neighbors, how will we allow God’s providence to work in our lives and those around us?

The Bible speaks to the unique contributions of outsiders to God’s kingdom and of God’s special care for outcasts. Whether you’ve always been an outsider, are looking to become one, or just want to better love the ones in your midst, this plan will help you explore the ways that the gifts of the outsider benefit us all, leading us into greater unity and a stronger faith in Christ.

The Bible speaks repeatedly to God’s heart for those who are refugees—individuals who have been forced by persecution to flee their country of origin and take up residence in a new land. This reading plan is adapted from Seeking Refuge: On the Shores of the Global Refugee Crisis.