37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' 40 And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'
Today I read an article by Stephen Mattson with this same title that shook me to the core. Although there might be many political, financial, and logistical reasons for citizens to reject the influx of global refugees, there are no theological ones. It may be inconvenient, uncomfortable, and extremely hard, but Jesus wants us to care for these people — the poor, homeless, sick, persecuted, downtrodden, and oppressed. (Mattson)
As the news headlines shock us with concerning terrorist agendas and attacks, it is natural for us to want to pull away, to draw back from what the Gospel has called us to. That is the old man. The sin nature. We should not be surprised that 26 U.S. states have already determined that their doors are closed to Syrian refugees. The world is going to do what the world is going to do. We should be surprised and appalled however when those who claim Christ not only remain silent, but choose the side of anger, hatred, and fear.
If Christians refuse to accept and help refugees, we are ignoring, misinterpreting, and even blatantly rejecting Jesus's teachings and various texts throughout the Bible (Jeremiah 22:3-5; Zechariah 7:8-10; Isaiah 16:4; Matt. 25:34-40; Heb. 13:1-2; James 2:5).
"This is a chance to be radically countercultural — to glorify Christ through selfless sacrifice, hospitality, and love." (Mattson) As our current sermon series in Philemon has challenged us week after week, hasn't the Gospel CHANGED you like it did Paul, Onesimus, and Philemon? Yes! This is your opportunity to live it out.
Great post, Milo! I love how you invite us to be radically countercultural. Let's take the opportunity!
ReplyDeleteWhat will we do when the refugees we hear about on the news come to our city for help? If we look at this from a God appointed perspective than let's join Him where He is working. Imagine leaving behind all of the maygem, the bombs and frightful terror. Because of our prayers these homeless people might make it Buffalo NY where there will be some peace. More importantly there will be open arms, a place to live and the gospel of Jesus on the lips of welcoming western New Yorkers. That would bring God glory.
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