Shortly after the attacks began on Ukraine, women in our community gathered to pray. It was a holy moment of internet acquaintances logging onto Zoom to pray together.
We also talked about ways to take action. We discussed ways to show love and care to Eastern Europeans living in our local communities.
Sheila listened as the example was shared of taking a pie to a friend from the region as just a simple act of kindness. She lives in Missouri and didn’t know anyone from Ukraine. Then she remembered an article she’d read in the local news about a Ukrainian family who lived close and owned an alterations shop just a few blocks from her house.
She decided that she, too, could pick up a store-bought dessert and deliver it to their place of business. Sheila wrote a note, letting them know she cared and was praying for them and their country. She taped it to the cake box.
Andrey, the owner, greeted her and they talked briefly about the devastating situation in Ukraine. Then, he came from behind the very long counter, and even though they’d never met before, they hugged each other with teary eyes.
He shared how appreciative he was to know there are people here in the U.S. who care and are praying. When Sheila went back the following week to have a shirt altered, it warmed her heart to see two or three small plants on the counter with cards attached expressing love and support for the people of Ukraine. Small gestures, yes, but so meaningful to Andrey and his wife Anna.
Welcome can look like a plant, a pie, a note. It’s not about the exact steps we take, but it’s about taking the step to talk to a stranger or a friend and to show you care about their story.
We shared a challenge last week, inviting you to reach out to people in your community with a small act of kindness. It’s an ongoing invitation! Look for the ways God is placing people in your path and take the leap to reach out with love!
Let’s have the conversation you’ve always wanted to have about immigration.