There are “strangers” in our midst; people we are reluctant to know because they are different from us. Whether they have immigrated from another country or their families have lived here for centuries and they live next door, they are strangers because they are different. Rather than celebrating these differences, we hide behind a “wall” in this amazingly diverse world and they remain unknown.
The wall is not a physical one but a construct in our hearts… with the sole purpose of “protecting” ourselves from the unknown. The barriers that prevent us from interacting with people are many; skin color, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion and yes, even people with disabilities. Anyone who is different must work much harder to be valued and respected because we live in a nation gripped by fear of the unknown.
The church could be instrumental in deconstructing the wall, but instead, even many of those who profess that each person beautifully exhibits the unique characteristics of God, lives in fear and some people remain on the outside.
How do we get past our fears to welcome the “stranger” in our midst? The bible offers several suggestions about engaging with the “stranger.” Here are just a few.
In Matthew 25:35, Jesus says, “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”
Then, in Hebrews 13:1, Paul says, “Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.”
And in Romans 12:13, he says, “Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.”
The call is clear. We can no longer close our eyes to the injustice that surrounds us. No one is exempt from the responsibility of caring for their fellow man. As human beings, we are called to protect and care for those that God brings before us.
Strangers are everywhere! May God make us keenly aware. May He open our eyes and strike our hearts with compassion so that we may respond with His kindness and love.
Stories Changing Lives