I have been somewhat reluctant to get personally involved in the debates regarding the arrival of refugees in our country. But after reading a letter sent to the editor of The Alabama Baptist a couple of weeks ago I could not remain silent any longer.
Allow me to offer some personal thoughts on why Christians must show concern for these refugees. First we have been given the mandate to love God and all people (Mark 12:30–31). When was the last time you had loving thoughts or showed deeds of love and kindness to a refugee? Second we should remember that refugees are made in the image of God (Gen. 1:26, 28). It does not matter what country they were born in or what country they come from. They are still made in God’s image. Third we should never forget that some great Christians were economic refugees. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob left the land of Canaan, the promised land, on a number of occasions in search of food and security (Gen. 12:12; 26:1; 41:57; 42:6; 43:1–7). Fourth we should also take heed to God’s words to Israel regarding refugees. Leviticus 19:34–35 says, “And if a stranger dwells with you in your land, you shall not mistreat him. The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.”
For those of us who are Christians, now is the time for us to demonstrate the attitude of Christ, which was one of radical love and sacrifice.
Stanley Kilgore
Pastor, Center Grove Baptist Church, Cullman
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