When God created the earth and all that was therein, he did not place any border lines separating countries. Borders and boundaries were established by kings and queens and governments of all types.
I believe that God created the earth with the idea that people could live wherever they wanted to live. Where you were born could be anywhere on earth, and where you wanted to live could be your privilege and freedom to choose! But then humans made up the rules about separating countries. I personally have a hard time with the word “illegal” when talking about a person seeking a country to live in.
Today, governments around the globe make their own rules concerning who may and may not enter their countries and who may become a citizen. The rules pertaining to immigration vary from country to country. The United States of America is now going through a period of debate over how to deal with immigration; Canada and Mexico are involved in discussion on the immigration issue also.
Demonstrations by people who are on one side of the immigration issue are met with protests by people who are on the opposing side of the issue.
Just what should a Christian do?
Scripture tells us that we should love the foreigners within our land (Deut. 10:19). Scripture also says that we should love our neighbor. And even if we consider those who are immigrants an enemy, Jesus had a back-up plan for that. He said, “Love your enemies.”
On the “citizen” side of the issue, we should participate by asking our elected officials to do everything they can to welcome immigrants to our land—and we can follow through by attending any meetings the elected officials call to have dialogue about immigration. Let them know how you feel!
On the “Christian” side of the issue, we should pray for immigrants in their quest to become citizens of our land.
Get to know some people who want to become citizens. It may be your server at a restaurant or the person busing your table or the person giving you some water to drink. You may even want to try speaking his or her language to become friendly. This friendliness can also be carried into the workplace. I have seen the joy on the faces of immigrants who have become citizens. It is as though they are born again!
Being kind should be a way of life for everyone.
About the Author
Dean Koldenhoven is a former mayor of Palos Heights, Ill. He attends Palos Heights Christian Reformed Church.
