There is Only “One Another”

There is Only “One Another”

Via TJC (Friday)

“When an alien resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. You will regard the alien who resides with you as the native-born among you. You are to love him as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt; I am the Lord your God.” ~Leviticus 19:33-34 

“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me. I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” ~The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island

Growing up, I remember hearing Presidents, community leaders, pastors, coaches, and neighbors describe America as a “shining city on a hill.” I recall immigrants in our community speaking of the opportunities here, envisioning a land where “the streets were paved with gold.” . BTW - 99% of people in America have an immigrant ancestry  Both then and now, I am struck by how deeply these words connect with Biblical ideals—a place people long to reach and where they feel welcomed.

Hospitality and generosity are core values in our faith and fundamental to our nation. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates that our compassion extends beyond friends and family to encompass even those we don’t know—or may struggle to love. Jesus expands the concept of “neighbor” and reminds us that our attitude shapes our actions. Both the Law (Leviticus) and Jesus’ fulfillment of it shape our understanding that there are no “others”; there is only “One Another.”

I don’t have a recent immigrant story. My family’s presence here predates the War of 1812. As we approach this year’s election, the topic of immigration weighs heavily on the nation’s conscience. It’s natural for the candidates to disagree on policies. But for perhaps the first time in a long time, they differ fundamentally on the intrinsic value of each individual immigrant.

Immigration is an issue that concerns “We, Us,” not “They, Them.” The foreigner living among us is us. If we aspire to be a nation that is a shining city on a hill, a beacon of hope for those yearning to breathe free, then we must elect leaders who reflect the values Jesus spoke of at the end of the Good Samaritan parable: “Go and do likewise.”

Daily Battle Order:

Who is our neighbor? Does this include the migrant among us? So, let’s take on the elephant in the room as we discuss these topics—does it make any difference how the immigrant/migrant enters the country? Does the process they used to enter, or lack thereof, change how we regard them “like native-born?” If so, why? Is that a Kingdom stance or a national/cultural position? They come to us tired, poor, and homeless. As you consider your vote, seek leaders who embrace Kingdom values and inspire hope, hospitality, and generosity.