“You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” – Leviticus 19:34
Welcoming the Stranger
Welcoming foreigners into our communities and lives is an essential part of our Christian practice. We are called to open our hearts and doors to those who are different from us. It is a reflection of God’s love and acceptance. The Bible encourages us to treat these individuals as if they were our own family, reminding us of the time when we too were in need. By adopting a welcoming attitude, we strengthen the fabric of our communities, nurturing a sense of unity and understanding among all people, regardless of their background.
Exodus 22:21
“You shall not wrong a stranger or oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” – Exodus 22:21
Deuteronomy 10:19
“Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt. You shall fear the Lord your God. You shall serve him and hold fast to him, and by his name you shall swear.” – Deuteronomy 10:19
Leviticus 19:33
“When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong.” – Leviticus 19:33
Deuteronomy 24:17
“You shall not pervert the justice due to the sojourner or to the fatherless, or take a widow’s garment in pledge.” – Deuteronomy 24:17
Matthew 25:35
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” – Matthew 25:35
Empathy Towards Foreigners
Empathy plays a vital role in how we treat foreigners. We should strive to put ourselves in their shoes, recognizing their struggles and experiences. The Bible often reminds us to show compassion and kindness, as we never know the battles that others are fighting. By cultivating empathy towards those who are different or have come from different lands, we can break down barriers and create harmonious relationships. This spirit of understanding not only nurtures our community but also enriches our faith as we learn to see Christ in every person.
Hebrews 13:2
“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” – Hebrews 13:2
1 Peter 4:9
“Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.” – 1 Peter 4:9
Luke 6:31
“And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” – Luke 6:31
Mark 12:31
“The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” – Mark 12:31
Colossians 3:12
“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
Justice for Foreigners
As Christians, we are called to seek justice for all, including foreigners among us. The Bible emphasizes fair treatment and standing against injustice. When we see those who are marginalized or oppressed, we should be advocates for their rights and welfare. Caring for the well-being of foreigners resonates with God’s character. It allows us to reflect His righteousness, showing that every individual deserves respect, dignity, and justice. Our actions can become a conduit for His grace in their lives.
Deuteronomy 16:19
“You shall not pervert justice; you shall not show partiality, and you shall not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and subverts the cause of the righteous.” – Deuteronomy 16:19
Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” – Isaiah 1:17
Psalms 146:9
“The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.” – Psalms 146:9
Jeremiah 22:3
“Thus says the Lord: Do justice and righteousness, and deliver from the hand of the oppressor him who has been robbed. And do no wrong or violence to the resident alien, the fatherless, and the widow, nor shed innocent blood in this place.” – Jeremiah 22:3
Micah 6:8
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” – Micah 6:8
Acts of Kindness
Acts of kindness are essential in how we treat foreigners. We create an atmosphere of love and acceptance when we extend our hands to help those who may feel isolated or unwanted. Kindness can be a bridge that connects us to others, showing them that they matter. Simple gestures, whether it’s sharing a meal, offering a helping hand, or just a warm smile, can make a significant difference in the lives of those who feel like outsiders. It demonstrates the love of Christ in a tangible way, fostering community and belonging.
Luke 10:36-37
“Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.” – Luke 10:36-37
Acts 10:34
“So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality.” – Acts 10:34
Romans 12:13
“Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” – Romans 12:13
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.” – Proverbs 14:21
Teaching Love and Inclusion
Teaching love and inclusion is a significant part of how we treat foreigners. As we walk in faith, it’s our duty to share these principles with our children and community. Instilling the value of love, acceptance, and equality ensures that future generations carry forward the message of unity in diversity. The Bible consistently reflects God’s desire for us to be inclusive, allowing everyone to experience His love. By fostering this atmosphere of love and acceptance, we reflect the Kingdom of God on Earth.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Romans 15:7
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” – Romans 15:7
Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28
John 13:34
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” – John 13:34
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Offering Support and Resources
Finally, offering support and resources to foreigners is essential. Whether it’s helping with language barriers or offering access to legal, social, or emotional support, we must be proactive in our actions. The Bible calls us to care for those in need, and this includes providing assistance to those who may be struggling. Our support can illuminate paths for newcomers and help them successfully integrate into our communities. By offering our resources, we can embody the love of Christ and allow others to flourish.
2 Corinthians 9:7
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7
1 Timothy 6:18
“They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.” – 1 Timothy 6:18
James 1:27
“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” – James 1:27
Isaiah 58:10
“If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday.” – Isaiah 58:10
Matthew 5:42
“Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.” – Matthew 5:42
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on how to treat foreigners, it’s essential for us to remember the teachings of the Bible. Our faith urges us to welcome strangers, empathize with their struggles, seek justice, and perform acts of kindness. Each verse we explored emphasizes the divine call to love and support those who may feel isolated or marginalized.
We have the ability to make a difference in the lives of foreigners by nurturing empathy, teaching inclusivity, and providing necessary resources. Let’s strive to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our communities, extending His love to all, regardless of background. By fostering a spirit of acceptance, we build a stronger community for ourselves and others.
As we continue on our faith journey, we are encouraged to explore more about the beautiful lessons in scripture, such as foreigners in your land or assimilation in a new country. These teachings will help enrich our understanding and give us the tools to embrace diversity in love.