OPINION:
The border crisis has dominated headlines in recent years, sparking debates and political tensions. As a pastor and individual deeply committed to spreading the love of Christ, I feel compelled to address this humanitarian issue from a perspective rooted in love, compassion, and justice.
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First and foremost, it is crucial to recognize the humanity of those impacted by the border crisis. Behind the statistics and political rhetoric are real people — men, women, and children — fleeing violence and poverty. These individuals are created in God’s image and deserve dignity, respect, and compassion. Yet, because of the chaos happening on the border and the lack of immigrant regulations, border detention facilities have surpassed maximum capacity, resulting in children sleeping on floors.
As Christians, we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, or immigration status. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus teaches us to extend mercy and kindness to those in need, even when it may be inconvenient or uncomfortable. Therefore, our response to the border crisis must be guided by empathy and a commitment to uphold the inherent worth and dignity of every human being.
At the same time, addressing the complexities of the border crisis requires a nuanced approach that acknowledges the need for both compassion and practical solutions. While border security is an important consideration, it should not come at the expense of basic human rights or humanitarian principles. We must strive to create immigration policies that are just, compassionate, and respectful of human dignity, while also upholding the rule of law. It is time for the Biden administration to work toward a comprehensive immigration reform that will protect our border. The only solution is one which seals the border NOW, ends catch and release, reinstates the remain in Mexico policy, does not consider amnesty, and creates sensible policies which recognize that legal immigration is nothing but a blessing for America.
We are responsible for advocating for policies that reflect our values of love, justice, and mercy. This may involve engaging in grassroots advocacy, community organizing, and dialogue with policymakers to ensure that our immigration system reflects our values and respects the dignity of every person.
Our response to the border crisis should extend beyond policy advocacy to practical acts of compassion. This looks like providing humanitarian aid and support to migrants and refugees, volunteering with local organizations that serve immigrant communities, and offering hospitality and welcome to those in need. As followers of Christ, we are called to be a light in the darkness, to stand with the marginalized and vulnerable, and to extend God’s love and grace to all.
Amid the border crisis, it is easy to become overwhelmed by fear, division, and uncertainty. However, as believers, we are called to be people of hope, trusting in God’s promise of redemption and renewal. We must reject the politics of fear and division that seek to dehumanize and scapegoat immigrants and instead embrace a vision of love while advocating for policies that create a substantial solution to the border crisis.
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Samuel Rodriguez Jr. is an Evangelical American Christian leader born to Puerto Rican parents in the United States. He is a pastor, movie producer, author, civil rights activist and television personality. He is the president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference.
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