I'm a Christian. I'm not a perfect person but I do profess Christ as my Lord and Savior and (try) to live my life in Biblical manner. I know many of my readers also claim Jesus as their Lord and Savior. This one is for y'all (though I encourage people of all faiths/backgrounds to keep reading).
We are in a state of crisis in the United States of America, no matter how you voted, President Donald J. Trump has implemented, via executive order, a temporary ban on people/refugees from primarily Muslim countries. Effectively, he has decided that anyone from these countries could be a potential terrorist.
I have a problem with this, and I hope you do too, Christian.
Such umbrella "fixes" to problems are dangerous. Our President just told a lot of people, many of whom are legal citizens/green card holders, students and average Joe's, that they are not (currently) welcome here because of where they come from/religious affiliation. Though he has said he's not specifically targeting Muslims, he, by effect, is.
Additionally, there are numerous refugees from these countries whom were intended to be joining us here in the US in order to start fresh, away from the hatred, violence and evil permeating from their homelands.
And what did we do? Close the door in their faces.
Christian, Jesus calls us to care for these people, regardless of religious affiliation ("The Good Samaritan") or walk of life (Matthew 25:35-45). We are asked to feed the hungry, clothe those in need of clothes and to treat the foreigner as one of our own. Everyone. Not just "Americans".
I know many of you reading this are probably just as frustrated by this action as I am but for those whom are not, I challenge you to investigate your heart why this doesn't bother you? If Jesus was President, would he have turned people away who needed help? Why should we?
Some people, I know, want to make sure our people in the US are safe and properly to vetted before allow these people back in. I understand that and I do agree our overall immigration vetting process has much room to grow.
That being said, the Bible calls us to love and treat well all people, regardless of our own safety. Sometimes loving, serving and caring doesn't come with a 100% safety assurance; serving the Lord does not mean only when it's safe and comfortable (though sometimes it does).
So, Christians, what are we going to do about this?
Well, you can pray, first and foremost. Pray for safety and care for those whom are affected. Pray for wisdom and compassion for our nation's leaders. Pray for an open heart and mind to what He may have in store for you.
Secondly, call your senators and congressmen! Let your voice be heard. It's one of the most "American" things we can do.
As Christians, we know this life is not THE life. I have a great peace in knowing that this world is not the pentacle of existence. I have hope. I have hope for the life I am currently living and a hope for what comes after. As for the here and now, I want to instill this hope in all people around the world.
Blessings,
ZER
