Shining a Light into Darkness: Human Trafficking Awareness Month
As January begins, so does Human Trafficking Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on one of the darkest and most pervasive crimes afflicting our world. The horror of human trafficking is also something that frequently happens in our city with the I-20 interstate being a hotbed for human trafficking across the U.S. For followers of Jesus, the fight against human trafficking is not only a moral imperative but a reflection of the biblical call to justice and compassion.
The Inherent Dignity of Every Individual
At the core of the Christian message lies a profound respect for the inherent dignity of every individual, as each person is created in the image of God. Human trafficking, with its exploitation and dehumanization, stands in direct opposition to this foundational belief. Christians are called not only to recognize this inherent worth but also to actively work towards restoring the dignity stolen by traffickers.
The Biblical Call to Justice
The Bible is replete with calls to pursue justice for the oppressed and vulnerable. Proverbs 31:8-9 implores believers to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy” (NIV). Human trafficking survivors often find themselves voiceless, trapped in a cycle of abuse, making it important for the church to stand up as their advocates.
Compassion in Action
Just like we studied in the book of James a few weeks ago, Christianity is not merely a faith of words but a call to action. Human Trafficking Awareness Month serves as an opportunity for us to channel our compassion into tangible efforts.
Here at Asbury, we partner with The Wellhouse, Prodigal Pottery, and Hope Filled Rooms, which are all local ministries seeking to minister to those effected by the horror of human trafficking. For our February mission of the month, we will have an opportunity to serve with Hope Filled Rooms. If you are interested in learning more about serving those in our city affected by human trafficking, check out the websites for our partner ministries listed above.
Prayer as a Powerful Weapon
As followers of Jesus, prayer is a powerful weapon against the forces of darkness. Human Trafficking Awareness Month is a time to fervently pray for the victims, the traffickers, and those working on the front lines of prevention and intervention. It is a time to seek God’s guidance in developing sustainable solutions and intercede on behalf of those trapped in exploitation.
Restoration and Redemption
As the church, we have a message of hope, redemption, and restoration. As we focus on human trafficking awareness, Followers of Jesus can champion the cause of restoration for survivors. Support for aftercare programs, counseling services, and initiatives that empower survivors to rebuild their lives align with the transformative power of redemption central to the Christian faith.
Human Trafficking Awareness Month is a solemn reminder that, as followers of Jesus, we are called to be the light in the darkest corners of our world. It is an opportunity to align our faith with action, to embody the principles of justice, compassion, and restoration laid out in the teachings of Christ. Let this month be a catalyst for change, encouraging us to stand up against the injustice of human trafficking and work towards a world where the inherent dignity of every individual is not only acknowledged but fiercely protected.