Tomorrow is World Humanitarian Day. World Humanitarian Day exists to honor those who are serving the needy and to remember those who have lost their lives during their service. You can read about the history of this newly recognized day here and here.

Taken from the WHO website, World Humanitarian Day is

an occasion for remembering humanitarian staff who lost their lives serving others. There are many, and they come from partner UN agencies, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and numerous intergovernmental and nongovernmental organizations. WHO remembers its own staff who have lost their lives with great sadness, but also great respect.

I thought it would be neat to use this ConversantLife platform to remember and share together about some of those we may know or know of who are risking their lives serving others and/or who have lost their lives doing so. Maybe we could remember to send a little note of appreciation to those who we know over the next few days for the work they are doing.

Maybe some of you are out serving right now. Thank you! Be encouraged and know that you are doing a good work!

I’d like to remember my friends Esther and Camille who choose to serve their own Congolese people in the midst of war and chaos. They could be in the states, safe away from the violence. Out of their love and devotion to God and to their people, they make their home in the war torn country and serve. You inspire me and challenge me and I am forever grateful to you for your service.

It is easy to become overwhelmed with the amount of need there is in our world today. It is easy to become discouraged and feel helpless at times. I think it is important to have moments like today and tomorrow where we can reflect and remember that there is a lot of good happening out there. There are a lot of lives being saved from chaos and restoration is taking place. Peace is coming.

If you feel inclined, I’d love to hear about the individuals who come to your mind when you think about World Humanitarian Day. Who are those who have inspired you by their lives of service? What are some ways you can think of that would encourage those you know serving the needy today?