Embracing the Spirit of Emmanuel

Advent is a season of waiting, reflection, and quiet preparation. As Christmas approaches, we rehearse familiar stories—the journey to Bethlehem, the search for shelter, the promise of Emmanuel, God with us. These stories invite us not only to celebrate Christmas, but also to reconsider how we spend our time and to whom we give our attention, especially those who find themselves strangers in a new land.

I’ve always had a bit of a knack for connecting with refugees. During college at the University of Virginia, I volunteered with the International Rescue Committee, helping with green card applications, and with an on-campus organization that paired college-aged mentors with refugee children. Both roles were deeply rewarding. But like many seasons of life, that chapter eventually gave way to others. Law school, work, and growing responsibilities slowly crowded out volunteering. Even though the pull toward mentoring never fully left me, I told myself I didn’t quite have the time—or the right skills—to step back in.

Then, about a year ago, I found my way back through Refugee Resources’ Reading Circle program.

When I first started, I was nervous. I was paired with a 12-year-old boy from Nepal, and I wasn’t sure how much I truly had to offer. I worried about helping with reading comprehension. And if I’m honest, I worried about whether my presence would really matter. Those first couple of months were mostly about showing up and trusting that this small, faithful act of love would lead somewhere—even if I couldn’t yet see where.

Now, Reading Circle has become one of the highlights of my week. I’ve watched my mentee grow not only in his reading skills, but in confidence. We’ve bonded over soccer, basketball, and Chipotle burritos. I’ve even begun connecting with his parents, helping them navigate life in Dallas despite language barriers. You see, Reading Circle isn’t just about reading comprehension. It’s about building community—one rooted in the same warmth and hospitality that Mary and Joseph must have longed for when they were strangers in Bethlehem.

You don’t need a background in refugee work or perfect grammar skills to serve. You simply need to show up with a willing heart, a friendly face, and helping hands. Your presence is enough.

As I look ahead to 2026, I’m excited about the conversations to come—talking with my mentee about high school, college, and future dreams. These conversations won’t come from a curriculum; they’ll grow out of trust built week after week. They are possible only because of time spent together, faithfully and consistently.

As Christmas draws near and plans for the new year begin to take shape, I invite you to reflect on your own journey. Where might God be inviting you to show up? What gifts—of time, compassion, or presence—has He placed in your hands? There are countless refugee boys and girls in Dallas longing to be known and loved.

If Advent teaches us anything, it’s that God works through nearness. Emmanuel is not distant. He is with us. And when we choose to be with others—especially those who are new, overlooked, or far from home—we step into that same sacred story. After all, the greatest gifts are often the ones that cannot be wrapped: the time, compassion, and steady presence we offer one another.

O come, O come, Emmanuel,
And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Desire of nations, bind
All peoples in one heart and mind;
Bid envy, strife and quarrels cease;
Fill the whole world with heaven’s peace.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

Written by: Tim Parrish
Edited by: Emily Thompson