Living as Christians in Hoosier Land

The lenses that we wear certainly affect the way we see the world.  The fifteen years that Kim and I lived in Latin America have greatly affected my vision.  Today I love to get acquainted with immigrants, and especially with those that have only recently arrived in our country.  Often I imagine myself in their shoes. 

Since we returned to live in Indiana, our circle of Hispanic friends has grown to several hundred people from the Caribbean and Central and South America.  Interestingly, lots of other immigrants and minority people are also now a part of my growing circle of friends.  It is fascinating to me to imagine what they are thinking and feeling about life here in Hoosier land.  I am even more intrigued with the way their children are adapting to life here in North America.
 
At the same time, Kim and I have another world of friends, mostly white people, many that have not traveled or lived far from their birthplace.  Many of those in our extended families are included in this other world.  Lots of them consider themselves Christians, but their points of view about immigrants and minorities are often very different than ours.  Typically Kim and I try to keep our opinions about minorities and immigrants to ourselves when they talk, but at times it’s really hard.  Sometimes the things that our family and white friends say are insulting and painful, because we hear them talking about others that we also love even though they may not realize it.  Often our impression is that these friends and family members are spending a lot more time listening to talk radio and talking racist trash with their friends than they are getting to know the immigrant neighbors that now live among us.

Please don’t misunderstand me.  It’s not that I consider myself to be totally free from ethnocentrism.  I’ll confess that often my first reaction when I meet someone of a different culture and language is to pull back from them.  In fact, I’m only recovering from my self-centered biases and prejudices on a day by day basis myself.  Maybe the reason I get so passionate about the insensitive comments of others about minorities and immigrants is because I can hear echoes of my own ethnocentric attitudes rearing their ugly heads again.

Here is where living in the Word of God is so important.  The temptation is to allow the sinful world to shape our perspectives and attitudes.  I especially love what Paul says in Romans 12:2 about this matter:

Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold, but let God re-mold your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity. (Romans 12:2 JB Phillips translation)

Clearly God has a different plan in mind regarding minorities and immigrants than the world does.  When I live in His Word, I am reminded that we are closer to God’s kingdom when we spend quality time with people from a variety of cultures.  The Bible portrays this picture in many passages, from Abraham (Genesis 12:1, 2) to Pentecost (Acts 2) to the multitude of peoples from every nation, tribe and tongue that someday will gather around the throne of Heaven (Revelation 7).   I imagine this is part of what Jesus had in mind when He prayed to His heavenly Father, “…your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10 NIV).

Having minority and immigrant friends also helps me to keep a biblical perspective as the immigration debate rages around us. Often I can see our immigrant and minority friends’ faces when I hear hateful comments from our other friends and acquaintances of the majority culture.   Many of my immigrant and minority friends are innocent children, who have a special place in our Lord’s heart and also in heaven.  My hope and prayer is that God will use me as a bridge between cultures, my own majority culture and other minority and immigrant cultures.  Maybe in that way, I can have a little part in helping our Lord’s Kingdom come to earth as it is in heaven.

Immigration in Indiana and “The Christian Right”: Neither “Christian” nor “Right”

Many of the “Christian Right” in Indiana think that the only Christian position on the immigration debate should be in favor of ridding our state of all illegal immigrants with whatever means possible. They presume that those who do not have documents are “illegals” and therefore should not have any rights. To them, it seems so simple, hinging primarily on obeying the law.

In the immigration debate, however, this position is neither “Christian” nor “Right” (as observed by a reader of the Indianapolis Star article, cf. Judge Issues Injunction on Indiana's Immigration Law (Indy Star, June 25, 2011). Not because these sincere believers are totally wrong. Rather, they are only partially right, emphasizing one principle while ignoring many others.

In reality, the immigration situation is so complex that a legalistic punitive approach such as the one currently in question in Indiana is not an appropriate response, neither from a Christian perspective nor from a view to justice. The complexities of the immigration problem in our state are explored in much greater depth in previous posts on this blog.

The Wesleyan Church has set forth biblical principles that ought to be applied in the search for a Christian response to the immigration problem in our state (cf. link in right hand column of this blog). Obeying the law of our land is certainly an important consideration. But there are many others of equal importance. The Wesleyan statement provides a balanced biblical perspective for all Christians to take into account, as together we strive to obey both God’s laws, all of which are right and just, and those of our government, inasmuch as they do not violate God’s higher laws.

Six Illegal Students Take Mike Delph to School

Six undocumented students took Mike Delph to school on Monday, by protesting Indiana’s new immigration law and getting arrested. Their bold action serves as a reality check for Mike Delph, the original sponsor of the bill, and all Hoosiers as we look for a viable solution to the immigration problem. In reflection, four important lessons can be learned as we search for answers.

Not all Illegal Immigrants Arrived Yesterday.
Delph makes it sound like all “illegals” just came to Indiana yesterday. In reality, all of the students that were arrested had been here with their families for years. These six students are representative of thousands like them. Over a 100,000 undocumented persons now live in Indiana, including thousands of students. Many of them came here decades ago.

Most Illegal Immigrants are Doing all They Can.
Delph’s simplistic answer is that these students should just “go back home” and reenter our country legally. His naïve assumption is that it’s that easy. In reality, many undocumented persons living in Indiana have been here for years and do not have a home to go back too. Nor is there a line for them to stand in even if they were to leave our country and petition for reentry.

Not all Illegal Immigrants are a Drain on our Economy.
Delph’s assumption is that all illegal immigrants are costing Indiana taxpayers and not contributing anything to our economy. In reality, most illegal immigrants are hardworking taxpayers and make significant contributions to our economy. Many of them are giving much more than they are receiving in return. Plus their children represent a lot of potential, if we will just invest in them instead of marginalizing them.

The Illegal Immigration Problem Cannot Just Be Legislated Away.
Delph says that he is frustrated with ICE for not deporting these students. One would hope that our legislators are wise enough to craft laws that are enforceable. Any reasonable person can see that our government does not have the will or the resources to extradite all 12 million undocumented persons. Given that Delph has been obsessed for years to make Indiana’s laws the toughest in the nation against illegal immigrants, how could he be surprised by this outcome?

Plea for a Reasonable Approach to the Immigration Problem

The message below was just sent to Senator Delph in response to his latest post:

Mike Delph's Unreasonable Approach to Immigration

Dear Senator Delph:

Your current approach to the immigration issue is unreasonably selective. For just one of many examples, you generalize and exaggerate about immigrants based upon individual situations. The result is polarization instead of dialogue in search of just solutions. The problem with such a radical approach is that many innocent people can be hurt, including thousands of children.

It's true that your radical rhetoric arouses some people. On the other hand, I am encouraged that a growing number of others are providing courageous leadership for these difficult times.

My prayer is that you too will see the wisdom in their balanced approach and join them in leading us into a better future for everyone in our great state. I realize that you've staked yourself out pretty far on this issue. But it is not too late to join with them in finding a just solution for everyone.

Dr. Norman G. Wilson

Will the Obsessed Persist without Listening?

Will the obsessed persist without listening? This is a distinct and scary possibility in Senator Mike Delph’s situation. Senator Delph represents the Indiana district where I go to church, and reportedly he too is a church attender. In addition, he and I are aging white males and Hoosiers. Plus, as you will read below, there are other similarities between us. But it’s the differences that have me worried—for him, for our state, and more importantly for others like him who share his views and still claim to be Christians.

On Senator Delph’s part, I sense that he’s increasingly trapped by the obsession to press forward with draconian measures and egged on by a radical fringe group.

Below you will find our recent interactions:

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Friday, January 14 (Written message I sent to Senator Delph via his web page):

Dear Senator Delph:

I’m happy that you had a nice Christmas and that you are still enjoying your tree. I note in the latest posting on your web page that you are also ready to unveil a revised version of your immigration bill. Hopefully it will be seasoned by a greater spirit of compassion and hospitality for all those involved.

Sincerely,

Norman

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Friday, January 14 (Voice message he left for me at my office phone):

Hey Norman Wilson. This is State Senator Mike Delph, giving you a call. We have introduced our Identities and Immigration Bill. You and I just philosophically disagree on the issue, which is fine. It’s America. I would encourage you to participate in our committee process. Senate Bill 590 is slated to be heard in the Senate committee on Pensions and Labor on Wednesday, February 2nd, at 9 AM, and I believe they are going to try to get that in the Senate chamber. It’s a bit more comprehensive than what I did last year. I think it’s tough, but fair. I’m sure you will have a different vantage point on the matter. Nevertheless, I hope all is well with you and the family and wish you all the best and hope you have a great weekend. Senator Delph.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Sunday, January 16 (E-mail I sent to Senator Delph):

Dear Senator Delph,

Thank you for your gracious voice message last Friday. I am grateful that you took time to call me. Now I write you because I sense that you are a sincere person that is looking for thoughtful interaction on the matter of immigration in our state.

By the way, I just read that you have roots in Kentland and Frankfort and went to school at Purdue. I was born and raised in Lafayette, graduated from Jefferson High School, and then studied at Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion and at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis. My parents were also Hoosiers. My dad lived a number of years in Logansport and then Frankfort, and my mom was from Fowler. So it seems that you and I have similar roots. Admittedly my immediate family’s fifteen years in Latin America followed by our subsequent immersion in Latino culture here in Indiana have had a significant influence on my perspectives.

It’s true that you and I disagree in several key areas on the issue of immigration, although there are some basic areas of agreement.
• First, I with you love my state.
• Second, I agree with you that uncontrolled immigration is a problem.
• Third, I agree with you that every nation has a right to defend its borders and place reasonable guidelines on their workers.

My primary concern with your approach is that lots of innocent people will get hurt. Three things about your bill are troubling to me:

• First, requiring local police to ask for proof of legal residency if they have reasonable suspicion that a person is not a citizen or legal visitor would lend itself to profiling. This clearly feels like an anti-immigrant bias. I realize that you have included words designed to minimize this possibility, but I do not think that they are enough to protect us from this possibility.

• Second, the idea of implementing policies of English only also feels like an anti-immigrant bias. First generation immigrants in America have typically needed time to learn the language of the majority culture. Furthermore, America is not an English only country contrary to common views held by some in the Midwest. Entire states in the southwest of our country originally were part of Mexico, and many still have Spanish speaking communities that constitute a vibrant part of America today. It makes sense that we will have immigrants from those areas that have always been American citizens and still today speak Spanish as their heart language. I would like for Indiana to be a welcoming place for those Americans that would chose to immigrate to our state.

• Third, putting pressure on workers will inevitably hurt innocent children. I sensed the last time you and I met that calling attention to this concern is a frustration for you. The reality is that given the years that have passed without due attention to the immigration problem, thousands of innocent children would be negatively affected by your bill along with others with whom their lives have become intertwined in recent decades. The hurtful impact of your bill on these innocent people needs to be taken into account.

I realize the above concerns are not directly related to the impact your bill would have on our state’s economy. On that issue too, as you know, there are varied interpretations. I think it would be helpful for you to take a more comprehensive look at the data, instead of picking and choosing perspectives that favor your approach. For example, I still have not heard an honest recognition on your part of the number of positive ways that immigrants contribute to our state, both documented and undocumented. Plus I still haven’t seen a reasonable accounting of how the revenues from the taxes collected from undocumented immigrants are helping to offset the added expenses of caring for that population.

While radical conservatives seem to be energized by your approach, there is a significant number of Hoosiers looking for a more reasonable approach, of which I am one.

I am praying for you as you seek wisdom and guidance from above regarding this matter.

Sincerely,

Norman G. Wilson

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

In conclusion, I have a question and a request:

So, what do you think should be added to our conversation?

Would you join me in praying that God will guide Senator Delph and our other government leaders in addressing the immigration problem?

The DREAM Act and Politics

I'm disillusioned by the political theatrics surrounding The DREAM Act. Yes, it's encouraging that the House passed it last night. If the Senate would only pass it too, it could provide new hope and a future for countless youth and young adults that were brought here years ago as innocent children without a choice and now find themselves trapped...at least for those who manage to navigate a host of new obstacles that were written into the latest version of the document.

But even if this Act would become law during the lame duck session, there still would be up to eleven million others that are in limbo and waiting on comprehensive immigration reform. In addition, another 30 to 40 million Hispanics are watching and waiting to see who will be a friend and advocate of all immigrants, the marginalized, and the forgotten. They will note and remember how this congress and the next responds or fails to respond.

Back to The DREAM Act, my colleague and friend Ken Schenck sums up the situation well in his latest blog post:

Wesleyans and The DREAM Act

Some may say that I'm just too much of an idealist. I'd like to believe that my passions and perspectives are shaped more by the values of our Lord's Kingdom than by the ways and views of this world (Please see my previous blogs for more rationale regarding this statement and links in the sidebar column for more information).

The Law-Obsessed "Christian" and The Illegal Immigrant:

A Contemporary Paraphrase of Luke 18:9-14

9 To some who are confident of their own righteousness and look down on everyone else, consider this contemporary paraphrase of Jesus’ parable about the Pharisee and the Tax Collector.

10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Law-Obsessed "Christian" and the other an Illegal Immigrant.

11 The law-obsessed "Christian" stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this illegal immigrant.

12 I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’

13 But the illegal immigrant stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’

14 “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

(Based upon the idea of a highly-regarded colleague in the Theology department of the School where I teach and adapted from the New International Version.)

Wesleyan Pastors and Leaders Call for Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Wesleyan Pastors and Leaders, this is your opportunity to add your voice to the call for comprehensive immigration reform. Recently Nazarenes and Wesleyans are joining the growing number of Evangelicals in favor of fixing the broken system, by circulating a letter asking President Obama to address the matter (see Nazarene and Wesleyan Clergy Ask for Comprehensive Immigration Reform below).

Are you surprised that Wesleyan and Nazarene pastors and leaders would take this position? Even though loud voices are expressing simplistic views against the need for reform, thoughtful followers of Christ are urged to consider the complexities of the current situation. Previous posts on this blog are a great place to begin, along with other links in the righthand column. I’m convinced that this is one of the most urgent moral issues facing the church today. Given our Wesleyan heritage, my hope and prayer is that our pastors and leaders will not hesitate to speak out with courage and clarity.

I've asked that my name be added as a signatory calling for comprehensive immigration reform. Please write me today to let me know that you would like to add your signature to this letter too.

Your brother in Christ,

Norman


*************************************************


Nazarene and Wesleyan Clergy Ask for Comprehensive Immigration Reform:

An Open Letter To President Obama, the U.S. House of Representatives, and the U.S. Senate:

As denominational leaders, pastors of churches, and lay leaders in the Nazarene and Wesleyan denominations, we express to you our deep concern over the broken immigration system facing our nation. Because of Congress’s failure to pass immigration reform in the last several years, we have seen this debate spill over into states in ways that may divide our communities, confuse enforcement procedures and contribute to the hateful rhetoric, which is currently dominating the national dialogue.

The United States is home to immigrants of all backgrounds – Hispanic, European, Haitian, African, Asian, and so many others. When immigrant families are afraid to send their children to school, go to the grocery store, talk to the police during an emergency or even answer a knock at the door, regardless of the nature of their immigration status, we must speak up. A divided, polarized, and frightened community works in complete contrast to the message of Christ’s love and reconciliation we strive to communicate in our world. It is time to re-engage the immigration reform debate in a civil and respectful manner. Solutions should be sought that integrate both rule of law and love of the immigrant.

As Evangelical leaders in the tradition of John Wesley serving a diverse spectrum of churches around the country we are united in the belief that every human being is created in the image of God. We come together in the belief that Jesus calls us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the imprisoned, and also to welcome the stranger, regardless of immigration status. We too want immigration reform that respects the rule of law while providing a path to citizenship to those who want to integrate into the larger U.S. mosaic.

Consistent with our Wesleyan heritage and commitments to minister, love, and work with all people and in particular those whom Jesus called “the least of these” we support comprehensive immigration reform. We urge our policymakers to work constructively to address the challenges and complexities of immigration. We understand that we must enforce our borders and respect the rule of law in this country. Similarly, we must also look with compassion upon the immigrants who are here, working in all walks of life and contributing to the common good. A deep respect for the laws of the land calls for obedience, but also for the evaluation of the effectiveness and humanity of our laws. We assert that comprehensive immigration reform can do both.

As Evangelical Americans, in a country as diverse as ours, we should proudly embody our history and values as a welcoming nation. We pray that our politicians come together to craft fair and humane immigration reform as soon as possible, because a crisis of immigration policy that results in divided communities and families is also a crisis of the church. We are joining a Nazarene and Wesleyans for immigration reform campaign as a sign of our commitment to common-sense immigration reform that reflects our deepest and noblest faith values of respect for the law and love of neighbor.

Sincerely,


National Leadership: * (These are individual endorsements. Institutions are named for identification purposes only, they do not reflect institutional endorsement).*

Rev. Gabriel & Jeanette Salguero
Lead Pastors, The Lamb’s Church of the Nazarene
Nazarenes and Wesleyans for Immigration Reform

Dr. Jo Anne Lyon
General Superintendent
The Wesleyan Church
Fishers, IN

Dr. Jesse C. Middendorf
General Superintendent
Church of the Nazarene
Lenexa, KS

Dr. Jerry D. Porter
General Superintendent,
Church of the Nazarene
Lenexa, KS

Dr. J.K. Warrick
General Superintendent
Church of the Nazarene
Lenexa, KS

Dr. Oliver R. Phillips
Director, Mission Support USA/Canada
Church of the Nazarene
Lenexa, KS

Rev. Steve Strand
Director, Hispanic Ministries
The Wesleyan Church
Indianapolis, Indiana





District Leadership

Rev. Art Alexander
District Superintendent, Metro New York District
Church of the Nazarene
Valley Stream, NY

Dr. Roberto Hodgson District Superintendent, Southwest Latin American District Church of the Nazarene Shawnee, Kansas
Rev. Orlando R. Serrano
District Superintendent, Western Latin American District
Church of the Nazarene
Santa Fe Springs, CA

Dr. Mario J. Zani
Hispanic Ministries Coordinator, Oregon-Pacific District
Church of the Nazarene
Hillsboro, OR


Seminary and University Educators:

Dr. Ron Benefiel
President
Nazarene Theological Seminary
Kansas City, Missouri

Dr. Stacey L. Barker
Associate Professor and Program Chair,
Department of Social Work Co-Director/ The Center for Responsibility and Justice
Eastern Nazarene College Quincy, Massachusetts

Deborah L. Berho, PhD
Associate Professor of Spanish
George Fox University
Newberg, OR

Dr. Roger L. Hahn
Dean of the Faculty and Professor of New Testament
Nazarene Theological Seminary
Kansas City, MO

Andy Johnson, Ph.D.
Professor of New Testament
Nazarene Theological Seminary
Kansas City, MO

Michael Lodahl
Professor of Theology & World Religions
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, California


Rev. Dr. K. Steve McCormick
Professor of Historical Theology
William M. Greathouse Chair of Wesleyan-Holiness Theology
Nazarene Theological Seminary
Kansas City, MO

Dr. Eric Severson
Associate Professor of Philosophy; Co-Director of the Center for Responsibility and Justice
Eastern Nazarene College
Quincy, MA

Dr. William L. Selvidge
Associate Professor of Intercultural Studies
Nazarene Theological Seminary
Kansas City, Missouri

Rev. Dr. Fletcher L. Tink
Executive Director/Academic Dean
Bresee Institute for Metro Ministries/City Vision College
Kansas City, MO.

Melissa Tucker
Associate Director of International Ministries
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA


Mrs. Jennie Williams
Campus Ministries Coordinator
Eastern Nazarene University
Quincy, MA

Andy Johnson, Ph.D.
Professor of New Testament
Nazarene Theological Seminary
1700 East Meyer Blvd.
Kansas City, MO 64131


Clergy:

Rev. Ronald A. Benjamin Senior Associate Pastor Bronx Bethany Church of the Nazarene
Bronx, New York

Rev. Philip R. Hamner
Senior Pastor
Overland Park Church of the Nazarene
Overland Park, KS

Rev. Reynaldo Moralez
Lead Pastor
Luz y Vida Wesleyan Church
Wichita, KS

Rev. Bruce Chandler Paul
Ordained Elder, Church of the Nazarene
San Diego, CA

Dr. Mary Rearick Paul
Ordained Elder in the Church of the Nazarene
San Diego, CA

Rev. Dr. Samuel Vassel
Senior Pastor
Bronx Bethany Church of the Magazine
Bronx, NY

Rev. Montague Williams
Ordained Elder in the Church of the Nazarene
Boston, MA


Lay Voices:

Samuel N. Smith, esq.,
Immigration Lawyer
Samuel N. Smith, Attorney at Law
Fairfax, VA

Roger McCrummen, esq.,
McCrummen Immigration Law Group, LLC
Kansas City, MO

Mr. Jeffrey Sykes
Layperson
Overland Park Church of the Nazarene
Overland Park, KS


University Students:

Megan Ford
Student
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA

Ricardo Solano
College Student
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA

Blake Nelson
College Student
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA

Abigail Carr
College Student
Southern Nazarene University
Oklahoma City, OK

Evangelical Leaders Forum on Immigration

Immigration Reform: Another Christian View. Such was the title of Alan Wisdom’s guest editorial in Christianity Today on July 13, 2010. As if a plurality of “Christian” perspectives are possible, and that one can just pick and choose verses in the Scriptures to support one’s preconceived notions. Sensing the bias of the article, it is not a surprise that Romans 13 and 1 Peter 2 are cited almost immediately after attempting to discredit the relevance of Old Testament passages that urge God’s people to welcome strangers.

In contrast, participants in the Evangelical Leaders Forum on Immigration last Friday, September 24th, were reminded that true Christians ought to allow their perspectives to be shaped by the whole Word of God, from Genesis to Revelation. The Evangelical Forum on Immigration was sponsored by the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), World Relief, and The Wesleyan Church. Current church leaders had the opportunity to hear biblical perspective on immigration as well as ask tough questions about the controversial issue on the forefront of American politics and discussions.

Growing Support for Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Support for comprehensive immigration reform is growing among Evangelicals! Praise the Lord! (See links in the upper right hand side bar of this blog to Christian churches and organizations that have added their voice to the discussion.) We have the opportunity to make a difference, if we can come together around the biblical principles outlined on many of these Christian links.

Today I received the link to an excellent and informative document on this topic, entitled Thoughts on Immigration Reform, by Rich Nathan.

In addition, earlier this week I received a copy of a letter from the university where I teach expressing support for The DREAM Act (Information about this Act can be found in an earlier post on this blog). I plan to share the link regarding this letter of support as soon as it is available.

Still many evangelicals are uninformed about the complexities of the immigration problem. I am deeply concerned by our lack of unity on this matter and hesitation to do what is right. So let's keep passing the word that we can make a huge difference in the lives of millions of innocent children that are caught in this situation.

DREAM Act: Compassionate Help for Innocent Children

Evangelicals, here is our opportunity to help thousands of innocent children that are suffering most from our nation's immigration problem.

The DREAM Act is a bipartisan initiative to motivate and assist immigrant children and youth to go to college, which currently is not possible for those whose parents are here without documents. In many cases, these children were born in our country and thus are American citizens. Others have been here for years.

Your support for this initiative is crucial. This is a strategic opportunity as fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ to put our faith into action.

For more information about this Act and how to support it, just click on this link: DREAM Act

So, who will answer the call to make a difference in the lives of these innocent children?

Wesleyan Pastor Goes to Prison for His Faith

Rev. Gary Wiley, a Wesleyan minister, recently went to prison for his conviction that our country desperately needs comprehensive immigration reform. Way to go, Gary!

Click on Gary's Story to read his testimony at a press conference on July 1st in front of the White House .

I am grateful that The Wesleyan Church supports us in taking a stand against the suffering caused to millions of people, including lots of innocent children, by our country's broken immigration system . (To see the Immigration Position Statement of The Wesleyan Church, click on the link in the upper righthand column of this blog.)

Gary is right, this is a moral issue that calls for our response! All evangelicals are urged to stand with Gary in this just cause.

Illegal Immigration: Seven Talking Points among Christians

Regarding the Wesleyan position on Immigration, Wesleyan Pastor Dan Walker just wrote me the following:

The conversations I've had, even with followers of Christ, seem to get divisive quickly. Have you found any effective ways for helping people see that immigration is more than a liberal/conservative issue?

My response? “Great question!”

I am thankful for it for two reasons. One, because I am primarily concerned about the way that Christians think, feel, and act regarding immigration, including illegal immigrants. Second, this question gives me an opportunity to propose some talking points among Christians.

So here they are:

1. This is a Conversation among Christians. This is a call for a conversation among all sincere followers of Jesus Christ. (At this point in our nation’s debate, I am not interested in talking with people that do not share our kingdom values. If all sincere followers of Jesus Christ would come together around Kingdom values and principles, we could truly change the world on this issue and many others as well.)

2. We are Citizens of Two Kingdoms. On one hand, we Christians are called to be submissive to the authority of our earthly country—Canada, The United States, etc. This includes obeying the laws of our land as much as possible. Every country has the right to defend its borders and enforce the laws of the land as long as they are reasonable and just. On the other hand, we are also citizens of a heavenly land—the Kingdom of God.

3. As Christians in This Country, We are Only Pilgrims in a Foreign Land. Frequently I hear believers say that our country is A Christian Nation, although history shows that this has never really been the case. It is true that a number of Biblical principles inspired our founding fathers. Even today, we can see God’s hand at work in many ways in our nation. However, America is not The Promised Land. Nor is This Land My Land and Your Land. It is God’s land, and we are only His stewards. Only by His grace was I was born into relative prosperity in this country while others are trapped in poverty.

4. We Are All Sinners Saved by God’s Grace. For some reason God has allowed millions of immigrants—legal and illegal—to come and live among us, some of them for several decades. No one is innocent or sinless before God. All of us need Salvation regardless of our ethnicity and legal status. Our ultimate hope is that our Father’s Kingdom will be come to pass on earth as it is in heaven. (For more on this point, see my blog post Good News for the Immigration Problem)

5. The Values and Principles of God’s Kingdom Should Have the Priority. Where there are conflicts between the laws of our country and the higher values and principles of our heavenly Kingdom, we owe our ultimate loyalty and obedience to God. The Immigration Statement of our church sets forth eight biblical principles that are in contrast with the views that are frequently heard in the media, on talk radio, and by the Tea Party. Many Christians who repeat these views are allowing the world to shape their thoughts more than the values and principles of our Lord’s Kingdom. In so doing, often they ignore the fact that submitting to the laws of our land is only one of many biblical principles. Furthermore, when the laws of our land are unjust and violate other more important biblical principles, we are called to obey God instead.

6. Jesus Cares about Marginalized People. Jesus gives special attention to those that the rest of the world often forgets—the poor, prisoners, the blind, the sick, strangers, immigrants (regardless of their legal status), women, and children. Furthermore, He calls us as citizens of God’s Kingdom to join Him and be His ambassadors of Good News in Christ Jesus. (Luke 4:18,19; 2 Corinthians 5:20)

7. My Greatest Concern is for Millions of Innocent Children. (Here I talk about several children that were either born here or brought to the states as young children. Today they live in the shadows with little or no hope of reaching their dreams, due to no fault of their own.)

So Dan, what do you think? Let me know if these talking points are helpful. In addition, I would welcome any suggestions on how to improve them.

More importantly, may God fill us with wisdom and courage to talk with our brothers and sisters in Christ about this topic. The adversary has many strongholds and we can expect opposition. On this matter, many of God’s people are allowing their thinking to conform to the pattern of this world. May we instead “be transformed by the renewing of [our minds]. Then [we] will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2)

Your fellow Ambassador for Christ,

Norman

All Wesleyans are Urged to Support the DREAM Act

This is an urgent call to all Wesleyans to take a public stand for hundreds of children in our local churches. They are among millions of children that were brought to our country without documents. Many have been here for years but still are marginalized and suffer injustices daily. Our courage to speak out now in support of The DREAM Act can change their lives.


Let me anticipate five of your questions about this urgent call and answer them in the following paragraphs:

1. Why is this an urgent matter?
2. What is the DREAM Act?
3. Isn’t it wrong for Christians to support someone who is breaking the law by being in our country illegally?
4. But are Christians supposed to get involved in politics?
5. So how can you join me in making a difference on this issue?


1. Why is this an urgent matter?

Because every day thousands of children and young adults are deprived of opportunities…
• To live without fear of being deported,
• To have security of adequate food, housing, clothing, medical care, and
• To go to college and pursue their dreams.

Here's a link to a recent ABC report about a Harvard student, Eric Balderas, who also is an illegal immigrant. This is a typical example, although many others do not even manage to get into college because of their status as illegal immigrants.


2. So, What is the DREAM Act?

Basically, its purpose is to provide undocumented minors a pathway to conditional permanent residency and later citizenship under some basic conditions including the following:

• Have come to the USA as children (under the age of 16)
• Are long-term U.S. residents (5 years or more)
• Have good moral character
• Attend an institution of higher learning or enlist in the military for at least two years

In addition, the legislation would allow states to grant in-state tuition rates to alien students.

The goal is to urge its passage before the end of this year and hopefully begin to break the deadlock surrounding this polarizing issue. We have many children in our Hispanic churches in Indiana and across the nation that would benefit by this Act. More information is available at the DREAM Act.


3. Isn’t it wrong for Christians to support someone who is breaking the law by being in our country illegally?

No, it isn’t wrong. On the contrary, in this situation it is both right and just. While it is true that these minors are “breaking the law” by being here illegally, simply saying that they all need to just “go back home” is neither just nor biblical. Instead, this kind of response ignores the complexity of the problem and the fact that many other people are also responsible for their situation. For that reason, The Wesleyan Church has published the Wesleyan Immigration Position Statement to set forth a biblical perspective on this situation.

I am proud that Wesleyans have been in the forefront among Christian organizations on this matter, including those represented by the National Association of Evangelicals (see NAE Supports Comprehensive Immigration Reform), many mainline denominations, and The Catholic church (see Catholic Church Supports Immigration Reform). In addition, World Relief is a strong advocate for this just cause (see World Relief for Immigration Reform). There are also links to web sites for other organizations in the side bar at the upper right hand side of this blog page.


4. But are Christians supposed to get involved in politics?

Again, the answer is yes. In fact, we are commanded to be on the side of the poor, the hungry, children, widows, strangers, and immigrants. The idea that Christians are not supposed to speak out against these kinds of injustices is a lie of Satan. Sometimes taking a stand will require us to choose between the laws of our country and our higher duties as citizens of the Kingdom of God.


5. So how can you join me in making a difference on this issue?

• First, pray that God will intervene and guide us as His people in this matter
• Second, get acquainted with people in our immigrant Wesleyan churches and encourage them with your friendship, prayers, and support
• Third, read the proposed legislation at the Text of the DREAM Act
• Fourth, ask your government officials and representatives to support this legislation
• Fifth, join me in inviting others to join us in supporting this cause, including
o Your family, friends, and neighbors
o Our local churches
o Our districts
o Our colleges and universities

I look forward to your comments and thank you for joining me in this effort.

CALL FOR COMPREHENSIVE IMMIGRATION REFORM

WRITE YOUR SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES TODAY

This blog provides the rationale for Evangelical Christians to support comprehensive immigration reform. Now, I realize that there are still a lot of Evangelicals that are opposed to such reform. But I am also convinced that when sincerely devoted followers of Jesus Christ are fully informed about the big picture, most of them will change their minds and soften their hearts (and it probably won’t necessarily happen in that order).

For those of us who are already supportive of such reform, here’s a strategic opportunity for us to really make a difference on a public issue about which the Scriptures provide a number of clear principles, namely how we should treat the strangers and immigrants among us (see The Wesleyan Church’s Position Statement on Immigration).

For those who are still wondering how Evangelicals can support this position, check out the Call of the National Association of Evangelicals for Comprehensive Immigration Reform. As you prayerfully read this document, please keep in mind that this statement was drafted and supported by the top leaders of Evangelicals in our country.

So, how can we make a difference? Each one of us can write our government representatives and urge them to seek comprehensive immigration reform. Below is a letter sent to Indiana’s two senators and their responses, which are now a matter of public record.

If you agree, would you please take a few moments to send this letter to your senators and representatives? This action will raise their awareness and help to clarify their commitment to address this situation that is deeply affecting the thousands of innocent dependents of undocumented immigrants.

This link http://restorefairness.org provides the following form letter which can be e-mailed to your senators and representatives:

(Form letter, slightly edited from the original version)

Dear Legislator:

I am writing to urge you to support a comprehensive immigration reform bill to fix the broken immigration system. Any new immigration policy should respect American values of due process and fairness.

I hope you will ensure that new immigration policies will do the following:
1. Codify detention standards to provide humane conditions, medical care and legal counsel and stop the senseless deaths;
2. Provide secure alternatives to detention so that we stop locking up harmless individuals, children and people with severe medical conditions;
3. Enable judges to review DHS (department of homelands security) decisions and practices to prevent abuse and human rights violations;
4. Create a fair path to citizenship for the millions of hardworking individuals and families who live here.

You have a historic opportunity in the new year to demonstrate true American leadership, and uphold our founding values.

I look forward to your leadership on this urgent issue.


RESPONSES FROM INDIANA’S SENATORS:

So how will our senators and representatives respond to this call for action? For Indiana, we already have two responses.


SENATOR EVAN BAYH’S COMMITMENT (or embarrassing lack of one):

Below is the response of Indiana Senator Evan Bayh.

From: noreply@bayh.senate.gov
Subject: From the Office of Senator Evan Bayh
To:
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010, 2:19 PM

Dear Ms. Wilson:

Thank you for contacting me regarding immigration reform. I appreciate your thoughts and concerns on this serious issue.

After thorough consideration and listening to the concerns of people with strongly held views on both sides of this issue, I voted against the immigration bill (S. 1639).

The legislation ultimately failed by fourteen votes and was removed from further consideration by the Senate.

America is a nation of immigrants, and it is true that we must resolve the fact that 12 million undocumented immigrants currently live and work in this country.

But America is also a nation of laws, and our current immigration system is badly broken. Unfortunately, this deeply flawed plan does not secure our borders, does not respect family unity, and does not deal fairly with the hard-working immigrants who are already living here.

I voted 'no' because the Senate's approach is not a long-term answer to this country's undocumented immigration problem. We must find a sustainable solution so that we do not return to this divisive debate again and again every few years. The approach rejected would have left us with broken borders and broken immigrant families, driving our country further apart instead of closer together. Americans and those who long to be Americans deserve a better solution than that.

Please be assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind should similar legislation be considered in the future.

Again, thank you for contacting me. I hope the information I have provided is helpful. My website http://bayh.senate.gov, can provide additional details about legislation and state projects, and you can also sign up to receive my monthly e-newsletter, The Bayh Bulletin, by clicking on the link at the top of my homepage. I value your input and hope you will continue to keep me informed of the issues important to you.

Office of Senator Evan Bayh
(202) 224-5623
Russell 131
Washington, D.C. 20510



SENATOR BAYH'S NON-COMMITTAL RESPONSE BEGS A FOLLOW-UP QUESTION: So what will be your next steps? This is a huge opportunity for you to be a proactive problem solver. Just keeping our “thoughts in mind should similar legislation be considered in the future…” is hardly an acceptable response for someone that we sent to Washington to look for solutions.




SENATOR RICHARD LUGAR—A TRUE STATESMAN:

On the other hand, in this traditionally conservative Republican state with highly vocal radical elements opposing immigration reform, Senator Richard Lugar’s response below regarding this issue is another evidence that he is a true statesman.

Dear Ms. Wilson:

Thank you for contacting me. I share your support for comprehensive immigration reform.

I have emphasized that immigration policy should be updated in a comprehensive way to provide some realistic solution to the status of the more than 11 million undocumented immigrants. I support measures to increase border security and enforcement, some provisions for a guest worker program, and a plan for potential earned citizenship - behind those who are here legally - for appropriate workers that pay fines, pass a thorough background check, and undergo extensive preparation for citizenship, including learning American civics and the English language. I also support the DREAM Act, a proposal to authorize the adjustment of status of alien college-bound students who are long-term residents.

I will continue to work closely with my colleagues in the Senate to address these important issues.

Thank you, again, for taking the time to contact me.

Sincerely,


Richard G. Lugar
United States Senator

RGL/cga

Do you receive The Lugar Letter? Send an email to newsletter@lugar.senate.gov to stay current with Senator Lugar's activities. The Lugar Letter archives are available at http://lugar.senate.gov/newsletter/

Top Ten Myths that Christians are Spreading about the Immigration Debate

Check out my list below of the top ten myths that I have heard many Christians spread about the immigration debate. What do you think about this list? Do you agree? Disagree? Do you have questions? Are there other myths that you would add to the list?

Please note that I am writing to Christians. We must remember that first and foremost we are citizens of our Lord’s Kingdom and thus owe our first allegiance to our heavenly King. Only secondarily are we citizens of this country, although at times we may forget that we are only pilgrims passing through this land. So I present these myths not with an attitude of judgment, but rather with the idea that my brothers and sisters in Christ are spreading these myths out of ignorance. I hope that this post will prompt reflection, discussion, and a Christian response as we seek to be more faithful in obedience to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

So, here is my list of the top ten myths that Christians are spreading about the immigration debate.


1. All Illegal Immigrants Sneaked into the Country.
Not true. Many came here on temporary work permits that were renewed various times by their employers. At some point, many employers tired of the growing complications and continued employing these workers without extending their work permits.


2. Illegal Immigrants are Taking the Jobs of Americans.

It is true that some immigrants are doing jobs that could be held by American citizens. But in many cases, employers hire immigrants because they cannot find American citizens that are willing to work for the wages that are offered. Are the employers paying enough? That is an appropriate question, and the answer in some cases is, “No, they are not.” Sometimes immigrants take jobs that American citizens are not willing to do, due to very demanding working conditions. However, in a free enterprise market, immigrants should not be faulted for taking jobs when they are offered to them.


3. All Illegal Immigrants Forged their Documents.

Again, this is not true for many immigrants that are called “illegal.” Many that immigrated here and overstayed their work visas originally were granted driver’s licenses and drove legally for years until their licenses were revoked recently due to the lack of social security numbers. As a result now, many do not have any documents, thus it is more appropriate to use the term “undocumented immigrants.” On the other hand, it is not appropriate to refer to these people as “illegals,” as that term dehumanizes individuals who are created in God’s image.


4. All Illegal Immigrants are Criminals.

The rationale here often is that not having documents makes one illegal. That is a pretty broad and inappropriate use of the term “illegal,” as the offense of overstaying one’s visa is closer to that of a speeding ticket or a loitering citation. In most states, these infractions are referred to as misdemeanors and do not rise to the level of calling one a criminal.

In recent months, many are now being racially profiled, pursued and turned into “repeat offenders.” Are they breaking the law by continuing to drive? Yes, of course. Nevertheless, there are few if any other viable alternatives available to them if they are to provide for their families. I personally have seen long lines of immigrants in traffic courts on various occasions, often over 90% of all those present. As a result, our government today is criminalizing a growing group of marginalized people as the result of what originally were minor offenses. I am not justifying that they have broken the law, but just trying to put their situation into proper perspective.


5. Illegal Immigrants Do Not Pay Taxes.

Again this is patently untrue. The vast majority of working immigrants are paying taxes under an IRS issued I-10 number. This is important to them, given their desire to show someday that they have done all they can to qualify for American citizenship. Meanwhile, these revenues are mingled with funds from other sources, and as of a year ago, at least, the government was not even keeping track of how much comes into this general fund from undocumented immigrants.


6. Illegal Immigrants Do Not Want to Learn to Speak English.

On the contrary. Most immigrants are working hard to learn to speak English and succeeding quite well. But learning a second language is not easy for most adults. I have discovered that many of the critics who spread this myth have not learned another language themselves.


7. Christians should always obey the law.

Again this is an untrue statement. Sure, every Christian should submit to the laws of one’s own country as much as possible, but with one very important caveat. We are ultimately citizens of our Lord’s Kingdom and should be willing and ready to speak out against unjust and hurtful laws of the land. I believe this day has now arrived in many places across our nation because of the way that immigrants are being treated. By suspending driver’s licenses and enacting and enforcing tough laws that penalize many who have been here for years, millions of innocent peoples are being hurt and families are being separated.


8. Comprehensive Reform is the same as Amnesty.

This is a bald lie for propaganda purposes. On one hand, amnesty means granting full status without any conditions or penalties. I do not favor amnesty, nor am I aware of anyone else in their right mind that does. On the other hand, comprehensive reform is the only reasonable way forward. Right now, there are no other viable ways out of this mess, which currently is causing over 12 million people to live in the shadows. For this reason, many churches have finally gone on record as favoring comprehensive immigration reform (see links in the sidebar of this blog). A good plan should include background checks (to identify and exclude true criminals), penalties, probation periods, and other steps along a pathway to citizenship. In many cases, the process may need to take years before one becomes a US citizen.


9. Illegal immigrants should just go back to their home country.

This may sound like a simple solution on the surface. However, the reality is that going back “home” is not an option for many of those that are here. They sold everything years ago (which in lots of cases was not much anyway), left their lands of birth to immigrate to our country, and now have absolutely nothing to which to return…no jobs, no possessions, and no family. In the meantime, the economies and living conditions in many of their home countries are deplorable, due in part to our country’s economic policies. In addition, we need to keep in mind that many of their children were born here and are now American citizens.


10. The Problem of Illegal Immigration will just go away.

While I have not heard anyone state this openly, we have been acting for over twenty years as though we think this problem will just disappear. However, just the opposite is true. The longer we delay, the more we are hurting millions of people and ourselves too. The vast majority of those who are here will not “go back home.” They have made many sacrifices to come to our country and are committed to make it work out, no matter how long it takes. The longer we delay, the more we miss the opportunity to invest in the upcoming generation of their growing children.

A close version of this myth is to claim that we did not cause this problem and thus should not be held responsible. In reality, as responsible citizens in a democratic society, when we fail to speak up, after awhile our silence becomes acquiescence. Maybe not right away. However, over twenty-three years have passed since Reagan granted amnesty to around 2.5 million people. Since then, our government has been remiss, millions more are now here in similar circumstances, and way too many Christians are still silent. Meanwhile, many of these 12 million undocumented immigrants are accepting Christ as their Lord and Savior and are looking to us for guidance and help.

So what can I do, I hope you are asking. Here are three practical suggestions:

1. Join in prayer with others, for wisdom and for the millions of people that are affected by this problem

2. Be informed, by checking out the links on this blog and by seeking out news sources that have balanced coverage regarding this issue

3. Write your governor, senators, and representatives, to ask them to support comprehensive immigration reform

Call for All Christians to Protest the Harsh Application of our Laws:

Suspended Licenses Used to Separate Families and Hurt Innocent Children

Now is the time for all true Christians to rise up and protest the Indiana government’s harsh treatment of thousands of our brothers and sisters in Christ. While government officials may be following the letter of the law, their actions today are hurting thousands of innocent children and their families! As Christians, we are instructed by our Lord to support our government and obey the laws of the land, except when higher Kingdom principles and values are violated. Today this is the case, and it is time for all citizens of our Lord’s Kingdom to rise up in defense of our brothers and sisters in Christ that are suffering. (For more on the Bible’s teaching on this matter, see links to the right of position statements by The Wesleyan Church, the National Association of Evangelicals, and other Christian organizations.)

Beginning in early 2008, up to 120,000 driver’s licenses in Indiana were suspended, by targeting those who did not have a social security number. As a result, now hundreds of families have been separated and thousands of innocent children are hurting, and the number of victims continues to grow each day!

Many of these victims are immigrants that first came here on work visas and have lived in our state for years. For more than twenty years, we welcomed them, issued them valid driver’s licenses based upon documents that included tax ID numbers and rent receipts, allowed them to build our homes and serve us in our restaurants, and employed them to work in our businesses. They have faithfully paid state and federal taxes, are buying homes, and have children in our schools. For years we offered them Hoosier Hospitality, saying with our actions, “Welcome, we are glad that you have come to live among us.” Now this Hoosier Hospitality has turned into Hoosier Hostility and persecution.

How, you ask? Last year our government made an about face and began to pressure these immigrants to leave our state, issuing traffic tickets for driving without a “valid driver’s license” and levying harsh fines and jail sentences. I personally have learned of various cases that strongly suggest racial profiling by the police. As a result, today thousands are trapped in their adoptive homeland with nowhere to go. Years ago most of them left everything behind in their land of birth to come to our country. Now their car insurance payments have skyrocketed and their homes are in danger of foreclosure. If these traffic laws would have been implemented years ago, the current practices by our police may have been more appropriate. Now it is too late to take such a harsh approach!




















The church that I attend with my wife welcomes these persecuted foreigners. Every week visitors come to our services and accept Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. We are honored to embrace them as our brothers and sisters in Christ. Tragically, many in our church are being victimized by our government’s cruel about face and harsh persecution based upon their invalidated driver’s licenses. Most are hard working responsible people. But today, they are being criminalized through our government’s pernicious scheme.

This past month, Carlos, my fellow believer, spent two weeks in jail for driving without a valid driver’s license in Carmel, while his wife and two children were left to fend for themselves. Two weeks ago, Rodolfo, my brother in Christ, was stopped in Fishers, given a traffic ticket, and summoned to appear in court. Last night, José was pulled over in Westfield by a police officer who matched the license plate with Jose’s invalidated license. Each of my brothers in Christ has a wife and children that depend upon them for food, clothing, love, and care. Each one is faithful in their church attendance and in tithing. Every family in our church has been touched by our government’s harsh persecution through this tactic.

Now is the time to pass the word, by forwarding the address of this blog to all serious followers of Jesus Christ. No longer can true believers remain silent. Please join me, as together we rise up in defense of our marginalized and persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ. Your words of support and protest are desperately needed right now, to encourage God’s people and to let our government leaders know that their actions are not pleasing in God’s sight. (Also, please join me in praying for these leaders and police officers. Some of them are fellow believers, caught between enforcing the laws of our land and obeying our Lord’s commands.) Thank you in advance for standing firm with us, as together pray and yearn for God’s kingdom to come to pass on this earth as it is in heaven, with justice, compassion, mercy and love for all.

NAE Supports Comprehensive Immigration Reform!

Today my prayer is, “God, please forgive me for wavering! And thank you for The Wesleyan Church!”

Just two days ago, the National Association of Evangelicals boldly approved a resolution supporting comprehensive immigration reform! Praise the Lord!

This is a huge answer to the prayers of a growing number of Wesleyans who are aware of the complexities of our nation’s immigration debate and burdened over the suffering of millions of undocumented people, including countless innocent dependents and children.

See the press release and statement at the following links:

Press Release on NAE Resolution

http://www.nae.net/news-and-events/349-press-release-nae-approves-resolution-supporting-comprehensive-immigration-reform

NAE Statement on Immigration

http://www.nae.net/resolutions/347-immigration-2009

When I saw that The Wesleyan Church was one of three denominations listed with resolutions on immigration, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for our courageous leaders, including our General Superintendents and the thousands of Wesleyan pastors and lay people who understand these biblical perspectives and share our passion for justice!

Admittedly I had a twinge of remorse when I read my own comments after our church’s position statement: “…I can’t speak officially for The Wesleyan Church regarding our church’s position on the present immigration laws. Nor do I think we should take an official position.” While it’s true that I can’t speak officially for The Wesleyan Church, I regret saying that we should not take an official position! On the contrary, all believers and churches should stand boldly against laws that hurt innocent people and do not please God!

Position of The Wesleyan Church on Immigration

http://www.wesleyan.org/gc/blog/positional_letters/?p=6

Please, forgive me, God, for wavering! And thank you for The Wesleyan Church!

Would you join me in prayer that God will bless and use us together in this just cause that is dear to His heart? May He purge our hearts of all racism and complacency and move us to bold action as His ambassadors. May His Kingdom come to pass today on earth as it is in heaven!

Where are the True Evangelicals?

Christianty Today just posted another article on the immigration problem, this time reporting on a brewing disagreement regarding a proposed "tactic" to press our government for immigration reform (see link below). This situation is due in large part to the awkward silence on this issue by millions of others who also call ourselves "Evangelicals." As a result, these marginalized peoples, including many of our brothers and sisters in Christ, are left to speak for themselves.

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2009/september/6.17.html

So, Where are the True Evangelicals in this land from every people group, land and tongue? Where is that groundswell of believers whose citizenship and first loyalties are in our Lord's eternal kingdom rather than in an earthly one? Why are these heavenly citizens not united and mobilized around the Biblical principles of compassion, hospitality, human dignity, service, and support for those who are trapped without documents and viable options for the future? Why is there no groundswell of radical Jesus followers, united in their commitment to stand alongside our marginalized brothers and sisters in Christ? Is it really possible that True Evangelicals have been blinded by the reductionist assertion that the Biblical principle of obedience to law should trump all other Biblical principles, thus excusing true followers of Jesus from taking a stand?

Those who would consider themselves True Evangelicals can no longer linger on the sidelines of this debate. It's time to join together in support of comprehensive immigration reform to bring millions of marginalized people out of the shadows, including many of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

May every believer, local church and Christian organization join together in this cause, calling for a solution to the immigration problem in our land. Then may our unity in this endeavor be a witness to the "Good News" of true freedom that only Christ can bring to a sinful world.

Christianity Today Addresses the Immigration Mess: Both Encouraging and Troubling

Christianity Today addresses the immigration mess, speaking clearly from a strong biblical perspective--finally! In the lead article, entitled: "The Soul of the Border Crisis," local churches and evangelical believers are called upon to get involved. Check it out at the following link:

(http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2009/june/17.18.html)

However, results from a poll that accompanies the article are revealing and troubling. More than 4 out of 10 respondents said that they either did not know any illegal immigrants or were not aware of it if they did. If a significant percentage of CT's readership are Christians and these results represent the general population (admittedly two assumptions that cannot be substantiated), then one wonders why so many of us are not aware of the plight of millions of immigrants and strangers in our midst and seeking ways to reach out to those among us who are marginalized and most vulnerable.

At least we can pray and hope the this recent publication by CT will awaken us who claim to be followers of Christ and prompt us to reach out in His name.

FOOTNOTE: Also check out my recently published article in the Journal of The American Society for Church Growth entitled "Evangelism and Social Action--Revisting an Old Debate: Good News for Immigrants and Evangelicals Too" (Volume 20, Winter 2009), a draft of which is also posted on my blog entitled "Global Ambassadors" at the following link:

http://globalambassadors.blogspot.com/