By Drake Hunter | Special Contributor
The contributions of immigrants have enriched our country’s strength and diversity, a fact that we should all appreciate.
The treatment of immigrants, whether they are legal or illegal, has been a topic of discussion throughout history, including in modern times. Even the Bible has references to this topic.
In the Old Testament, Moses instructs the Israelites on how to treat immigrants, emphasizing the importance of protecting and treating them fairly and compassionately. His words provide a blueprint for treating strangers justly, mentioning their concerns over 35 times and offering specific instructions about citizenship rights, land ownership and immigrant guidelines. The Old Testament favors the justice side of the discussion.
Nevertheless, the New Testament highlights the significance of how strangers are treated, indicating that it reflects one’s commitment to following Jesus. Matthew 25 underscores the shared humanity and the divine love that transcends all boundaries, emphasizing the biblical commandment to welcome strangers as an expression of our society and a reflection of divine love (vs. 31-46).
The New Testament, with its emphasis on love, favors the love side of the discussion. However, it’s important to note that a sensible approach is necessary. Which approach, Old or New Testament, is correct in dealing with this hot topic today? Of course, it is evident both must be part of the solution. Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets (Old Testament); I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them (New Testament)” — fill justice with love! (Matthew 5:17)
In my current residence, certain very high-ranking government officials in Colorado have recently drawn parallels between the current immigration situation in the USA and the biblical viewpoint. However, their focus seems solely on their interpretation of God’s love, neglecting the crucial understanding of what it truly encompasses. This has resulted in a state of confusion and a complex situation for many Coloradans.
It’s essential to grasp that love and justice are inseparable in the Bible. In essence, “justice is simply love distributed.” When God’s love is presented without justice, it becomes reckless and irresponsible, leading to potential harm. Conversely, when love is separated from justice, it leads to alienation or falsehood, creating a society not in line with God’s approval. Without love and justice, no one can truly experience a fulfilling, happy or successful life, according to God’s understanding (Proverbs 3). When love and justice are not in harmony, it does not align with God’s approval. Those who only acknowledge half of God’s reality and interpret their way (Tree of Death rather than Tree of Life) will never comprehend the truth in their processes, reality, or lifestyles (John 14:6).
In the framework of love, justice necessitates constant demonstration, regardless of the immediate or vividness of the situation or need. Love is not merely about indulging people nearby, as understood in the biblical sense. Instead, it inherently includes justice. This implies a concern for the ultimate welfare of all humanity, a commitment to doing what is morally right, with ethical rules that align with God’s standards rather than man’s preferences, and the enforcement of appropriate consequences for wrong actions.
Therefore, as a member of our society, I urge you to engage in constructive conversations, advocate for fair and compassionate treatment of immigrants, and support policies embodying love and justice principles. Let us strive to fulfill justice with love, as it is through this harmonious union we can create a society that truly reflects the values confirmed in the Bible and promotes the goodness of all humanity.
Drake Hunter is pastor of Elevating Life Church in Fort Morgan. He is an honorably retired Air Force senior non-commissioned officer, author, spiritual coach and avid angler.
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