A Reflection on Key Verses and Their Timeless Message in Plain Language
Introduction
The Bible has a lot to say about how we should treat people who are new, different, or just passing through our communities. Whether you call them migrants, strangers, or foreigners, Scripture urges us to welcome them with open arms and treat them fairly. These teachings aren’t just old rules from a distant past—they’re timeless instructions about kindness, empathy, and justice that still matter today.
The Importance of Hospitality
Back in Bible times, hospitality wasn’t just about being polite—it was a serious responsibility. People were expected to care for guests and strangers, sometimes even risking their own safety or resources. One of the clearest examples comes from Leviticus 19:33-34: “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” This verse reminds us that everyone deserves respect and love, no matter where they’re from. The reason given is simple: the Israelites themselves were once outsiders in Egypt, so they know what it feels like to be strangers.
God’s Example and Our Obligation
In Deuteronomy 10:17-19, God is described as a defender of the vulnerable: “He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.” Here, caring for migrants isn’t just a social duty—it’s a spiritual one, rooted in empathy and memory. God leads by example, and we’re asked to follow.
Jesus: The Ultimate Welcomer
The New Testament builds on this idea. Jesus himself talks about welcoming strangers in Matthew 25:35-40: “I was a stranger and you invited me in.” He says that acts of kindness toward people in need are acts of kindness toward Him. This makes caring for migrants and strangers not just a good deed, but a way of serving God directly.
Another famous story is the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). In this tale, a traveler is beaten and left for dead. Two religious leaders pass by without helping, but a Samaritan—a person whom Jews typically disliked—stops and cares for him. Jesus uses this story to show that loving your neighbor means helping anyone in need, regardless of their background or nationality.
Standing Up for Justice
The Bible doesn’t just tell us to be kind; it also warns against mistreating or oppressing foreigners. Exodus 22:21 says plainly: “Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” This command is repeated in Exodus 23:9, showing how serious it is. The message is clear: remember your own struggles, and let that memory guide you to show empathy and fairness.
Isaiah 58:6-7 connects justice and compassion: “Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?” Here, helping the oppressed and vulnerable isn’t just a side-note—it’s central to truly honoring God.
What Does This Mean Today?
Today, lots of people are moving around the world—sometimes because of war, poverty, or climate disasters. The Bible’s call to treat migrants with kindness and justice is as relevant as ever. Whether we’re talking about government policies, church communities, or our own actions, we’re challenged to welcome and care for those who are displaced or marginalized.
This isn’t about politics or borders. It’s about seeing everyone as part of the same human family, deserving of dignity, safety, and respect. The Bible teaches that our shared experiences—struggles, joys, and histories—should unite us, not divide us.
Conclusion: A Timeless Command
If we claim to follow Christ, it simply doesn’t make sense to treat others harshly or speak poorly about them, because every person is created in God’s image. Acting unkindly contradicts what Jesus taught about loving and honoring others. The Bible encourages us to always be considerate and just toward newcomers or those who are different. It’s about ensuring that everyone feels included and respected, never ignored or mistreated.
When we welcome strangers and lend a hand to those who need it, we’re sharing the love that God wants us to offer, fulfilling the command to love others as ourselves. Personally, as a Christian, I strive to embody Christ’s love in my daily interactions. I remember helping a customer once, and they asked, “Are you always this nice?” Their surprise made me realize that kindness has become second nature for me through Christ—it’s not something I force, but something that naturally flows from following Jesus’s teachings.
Whenever we reach out to someone who’s new or struggling, we reflect God’s goodness and love. Caring for migrants and strangers isn’t merely a responsibility—it’s a unique opportunity to make our world more compassionate and welcoming for everyone. Each time we act kindly toward a stranger, we honor the image of God within them. Every gesture of compassion is a reflection of God’s boundless love. Helping migrants and outsiders isn’t just a rule; it’s a meaningful chance to create a society that’s more just and loving.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your timeless Word that calls us to welcome and care for those who are new, different, or in need. Help us to see every person as Your beloved creation, worthy of kindness and compassion. Fill our hearts with Your love, so we may honor You by treating migrants and strangers with fairness, empathy, and respect. Guide us to reflect the love of Christ in our daily lives, making our world a more just and caring place for all. In Jesus’s name, Amen.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
afrancinegreen.com 