Contemplative Bible Reading

Leviticus 19:33 (New International Version)

When an alien lives with you in your land, do not mistreat him.

This verse comes from the section of Leviticus that discusses “Holy living.” There are many verses containing simple statements encouraging the people to live in way that will work for them and others. God wanted His people to have happy lives, so He gave them advice on how to do it.

“Illegal aliens” is a hot topic in America today and has been a hot topic for … well for all my adult life. I remember in 1980 hearing a speech about illegal aliens and how many there really were in America. I was astonished at how large the number was some 29 years ago. I am astonished how large it is today.

America was built on immigrants or aliens. Once we become “natives,” however, we aren’t so welcome of aliens.

As simplistic as it may sound,

aliens are people, too

and we know how God wants us to treat people.

People who are breaking the law – being illegal – are punishable by the state. Law-abiding Christian citizens of a nation … well we abide by the laws. That is life in a nation of laws. People who are breaking the law are people, too, and we know how God wants us to treat people.

Therefore, we don’t mistreat the alien living in our land. We don’t mistreat the citizen living in our land. We don’t mistreat any people; we love them all. That is God’s encouragement and it helps us to have a better life.

Who wants to go around hating and mistreating people. Wouldn’t that be a miserable existence? Wouldn’t that keep us from knowing God?

God, help me to see the alien – legal and illegal – as a person for whom your son died on the cross. The alien is a sinner like me, covered by your grace. Help me to love them and to love my neighbor the citizen as well.