With immigration back in the headlines and so many differing opinions on the issue, I’ve been reflecting on what God’s Word says about how we treat those who come from other places — people seeking safety, opportunity, and hope. 🌎
As an immigrant, these verses hit especially close to home.
Scripture reminds us:
“When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them… Love them as yourself.” — Leviticus 19:33–34
Sadly, the issue of immigration has caused deep division — even among families, friends, and fellow believers. 💔 But as followers of Christ, we’re called to rise above the arguments and reflect His heart instead. God doesn’t call us to take sides; He calls us to love, to show compassion, and to treat every person with dignity.
Throughout Scripture, we see that when God’s people turned away from caring for the vulnerable — the widow, the orphan, and the foreigner — it grieved His heart. His desire has always been that His people would be known for mercy and justice.
Some will argue that these immigrants are here illegally, and that the government is simply enforcing laws. Having personally waited eight years to come to this country legally, I understand and agree with that perspective — we want our leaders to do their job of securing our borders and upholding justice. However, the execution of these laws can be done in a just and humane way.
Humane enforcement doesn’t mean ignoring the law. It means putting people first, ensuring fairness, minimizing unnecessary suffering, and upholding both justice and mercy together — because in God’s economy, the two are never in opposition.
Right now, we have an opportunity to do just that — to let our words and actions reflect the love of Jesus. Instead of allowing this issue to divide us, let’s allow it to draw us closer to His heart and to one another. 🙏
Let’s pray that our hearts stay soft and our actions speak louder than our opinions.
“For I was a stranger and you invited me in.” — Matthew 25:35
If you’re looking to make a tangible difference, here are some organizations in Florida where you can get involved:
✝️ Catholic Charities of Central Florida: Provides low-cost legal representation and immigration services to the immigrant community in Central Florida.
⚖️ Americans for Immigrant Justice: An award-winning non-profit law firm that protects and promotes the basic human rights of immigrants.
🙏 Florida Baptist Convention – Migrant Ministries: Offers opportunities for churches to serve migrant populations through food, clothing, and legal workshops.
May our response reflect both the truth of His Word and the tenderness of His heart. ✝️