RELATIONSHIPS WITH REFUGEES

This blog was written by Executive Assistant Jessica Sarver.

Brent and Sandra McBride were drawn by the mission of Harvest Church to be a Gospel-driven, disciple-making church and became members in January 2015. Upon joining, they began asking God for an avenue to make disciples and serve. Through an international service organization in Memphis, the McBrides were able to build a friendship with David and Basuze, Christian refugee brothers from the Congo.

Being convinced that they were called to share their lives with other believers just as the early church did in Acts chapter two, the McBrides felt like a relationship with these two refugees was exactly where God could use them. 

“And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” - Acts 2:42-47

Serving David and Basuze became THEIR joy, and the McBrides began a relationship with the brothers over meals. When the McBrides learned that David was turning thirty-one years old and had NEVER had a birthday party, they celebrated him by throwing him his first ever birthday party, and as much of a blessing as the party was for David, the McBrides were learning that true joy and life is found in giving oneself away. 

If Brent had been told five years ago that he would spend his free time with two Congolese Refugees he would have laughed it off, yet God has opened the McBride’s eyes to see He has brought the world to Memphis, TN! The McBrides have served and blessed David and Basuze by simply opening up their lives and inviting the brothers in. Brent and Sandra didn’t change anything about their lives to impact David and Basuze, but their lives have been changed because they took initiative to be on mission.

To see this story unfold, watch this video….