In a world where hope often feels fleeting, stories of faith and resilience emerge from the shadows, shining light on the plight of refugees. Recently, I had the opportunity to meet Pastor Piang, a refugee from Myanmar, during my visit to Malaysia. His words struck a chord: “You have come to us at a very low point. We always look to God for our hope, but we also look to the US, and maybe they don’t want us anymore.” This sentiment echoes the fears of many displaced individuals who have sought refuge from persecution, particularly those from the Zomi ethnic group, who have faced violence due to their Christian beliefs.
Pastor Piang’s family has been living in Kuala Lumpur for a decade, patiently waiting for acceptance into the United States as refugees. However, recent political changes have left them feeling abandoned, questioning whether their hopes for a new life in America will ever materialize. The current administration’s shift from a temporary suspension of the refugee resettlement program to a complete termination of humanitarian aid has left many families in limbo, uncertain of their future.
As the Zomi community in Malaysia anxiously awaits news, stories like that of the Khup family further illustrate the urgency of their situation. After completing the necessary steps for resettlement, their flights were abruptly canceled following the inauguration of the new administration. This family had already sold their possessions and given up their apartment, only to find themselves stranded and heartbroken.
For over a decade, our church has partnered with organizations to support Zomi Christian families in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Zomi community has flourished in the U.S., becoming a significant presence in Oklahoma, where they have established businesses, churches, and educational opportunities. Many Zomi individuals have achieved U.S. citizenship and proudly contribute to their communities, often referred to endearingly as “ZO-klahoma” or “Okla-Zomis.”
The connection between Baptists and Zomi Christians is deep-rooted, with missionaries bringing the gospel to their people generations ago. Institutions like Judson Bible College, named after the renowned Baptist missionary Adoniram Judson, continue to educate Zomi students, fostering a legacy of faith and community.
Despite the challenges they face, the Zomi in Kuala Lumpur have formed an impressive network of support. Their volunteer-run community, health, and learning centers maximize limited resources to assist as many families as possible. Their churches play a pivotal role in this system, embodying a spirit of generosity and mutual aid that is truly inspiring.
However, the abrupt cessation of resettlement and humanitarian aid has left many families feeling hopeless. The immediate withdrawal of support, rather than a gradual transition, threatens to escalate a global crisis. The lessons learned from the hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of such actions. Many Afghan families who sought refuge in the U.S. continue to grapple with the fallout of those decisions, leaving loved ones behind in perilous situations.
As a pastor, I feel compelled to advocate for those who are suffering. The Bible calls us to show compassion and provide tangible help to the most vulnerable among us. The emotional toll on families awaiting resettlement is immense, compounded by the uncertainty of their futures.
It’s crucial for our government to honor the promises made to families like those in Malaysia and beyond. The U.S. has historically been a land of refuge, and it’s vital that we uphold our values of compassion and generosity, especially in these trying times. We must not turn our backs on those who look to us for help, nor should we withdraw the support that keeps millions from falling into despair.
As we reflect on these pressing issues, let us pray for the Zomi families and all refugees around the world. May we find ways to extend our hands and hearts to those in need, ensuring that our actions align with our faith and values. Together, we can work towards a future where hope is not just a distant dream but a reality for all who seek safety and belonging.