Editor’s note: The original version of this blog ran on March 18, 2013.
When we encounter something that is not the way it should be in our society, God ultimately calls us to do something about it. James 2:14-25 speaks forcefully about the fact that our faith should manifest itself in concrete action. One specific form of action to which God calls us is advocacy. Proverbs 31:8-9 says, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up for the poor and needy.”
As Christians, we have a powerful political voice. According to the Pew Forum, 79.5% of US adults identify as Christians, and 26% identify as evangelical. One of the best ways we can actively welcome the stranger is to speak up and encourage our legislators to enact laws that treat our immigrant brothers and sisters fairly. Now, we shouldn’t patronizingly assume the immigrant community is voiceless; on the contrary, immigrants throughout the United States are increasingly speaking up on their own behalf in very powerful ways. However, I believe Proverbs 31:8-9 calls us in this case to join and partner with the immigrant community in order to effect change.
A quick yet effective way you can take action is by visiting the World Relief Advocacy site to find your legislators’ contact information in order to call and/or email them. Encourage them to support fixing our nation’s broken immigration system in a way that is consistent with our biblical values of justice, compassion, and hospitality. It only takes 2 minutes – max – to call, and each call makes a tangible difference.
I hope you’ll join me in speaking up! Proverbs 3:27 says, “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” Let’s act now to use our voices to obey the Scriptures and speak up on behalf of those who are too often marginalized. I look forward to speaking with you!
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