Welcoming The Newcomer
As the Immigration crisis has intensified, words such as “immigrants”, “refugees”, “asylum seekers” and “migrants” have once again governed the US political discourse in recent days.
But what does the word of GOD say about those newcomers?
In Leviticus 19:34 we find what GOD told the Israelites, “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.”
Jesus also gave us the instruction to “love our neighbors as ourselves,” (Matthew 22: 35-40).
The Bible affirms strongly and clearly the obligation to treat strangers with dignity and hospitality. In Deuteronomy 10:18-19, we find a similar thought “love the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.”
Knowing all that God has done for us – immensely good things – we are here as an Organization to treat “foreigners” and “strangers” and really, anyone in need, as our neighbors, friends and families. Above all, we must love them as we love ourselves. We, who have received God’s love, ought to also share it with others.
When I first arrived in the US many years ago, I had to adjust to the incredibly quick speed of life and learn about the new American culture. It was thrilling, but it was also difficult, with times when I felt confused and homesick. I gradually learned how to start again and create a new life with the help of Jericho Road staff and other family members. I am thankful for the chance to care for others in a similar way.
TODAY’S PRAYER – Lord, we pray for all people who have fled their homes to escape oppression, poverty, persecution, violence, and war. We lift up to you their fears, hopes, and needs, that they may be sheltered under your arms on their journeys, and their rights may be honored and respected. We also pray that they may be welcomed to their new locations with open arms into generous and compassionate communities. Amen
-Antonios Yohannes, Population Health Manager
Tony works with our community health workers to support patients struggling with hypertension and high lead levels. His work straddles both our clinical work and our work to address social determinants of health.
