When people move to a new country, they often carry more than just luggage. They carry hopes, fears, and quiet exhaustion from trying to rebuild their lives from scratch. Many international families in Korea work long hours, navigate unfamiliar systems, and strive to give their children a better future than their own. But during those long days, a question often arises in the heart: Where do I truly belong? As a pastor and someone who has walked that same path, I understand the courage and hidden struggles of starting life in a foreign land. I know the loneliness of not having extended family nearby. I understand the heaviness that comes when communication is difficult. And I recognize the feeling of being grateful for new opportunities while missing the world you left behind. Yet in this journey, I discovered a precious truth: God has a special place in His heart for those who walk unfamiliar roads. Scripture tells us that “The Lord watches over the foreigner” (Psalm 146:9). God sees the migrant worker covering night shifts. He notices the student adjusting to a new city. He observes the parents trying to protect their child from identity confusion. Nothing about your journey is invisible to Him. When the Church is healthy and filled with Christ’s love, it becomes a refuge for such hearts. A place where nations gather but do not compete. A place where languages differ but worship unites. A place where children grow up proud of their heritage and confident in their identity in Christ. A place where people who once felt like strangers begin to feel like sons and daughters. This is the vision God has placed on my heart for The Great Commission Church a home for every nation. Not just a meeting place, but a spiritual family. A community where international families can breathe again, find strength again, and dream again.

If you are reading this today and feeling far from home, I want you to hear this clearly:

You are not alone.
God sees you.
You are welcome here.

I pray that the Lord will surround your family with peace, protect your children, and strengthen your heart. And if you ever need prayer, friendship, or simply a place where you don’t have to explain yourself, our church doors and hearts are open.

You may be living far from your homeland, but in Christ, you are never far from home.

By Rev. Yaqub Kashif