Controversy at the Washington National Cathedral
After hearing about the controversy at the Washington National Cathedral, I figured I might be either brave or foolish enough to write about this heated topic. Reflecting on the events, I wondered how I would approach leading a prayer service with President Trump and his family. Let me start with a couple of disclaimers. First, I only watched about 30 seconds of the clergy’s message to President Trump, so I cannot fairly speak to her message. Second, I am an immigrant from South Africa. Although I am now a U.S. citizen, I know firsthand how overwhelming, long, and discouraging the immigration process can be.
This brings me to a question that many believers wrestle with: What is a biblical perspective on immigrants, especially those who are undocumented? This is a valid and pressing issue, but as followers of Christ, we cannot afford to let politics shape our worldview. If we say we are approaching this from a biblical perspective, we must truly look to God’s Word as our guide.
The Bible repeatedly reveals God’s heart for the vulnerable, including immigrants. In Leviticus 19:33-34, God commands His people:
“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 passage is both a reminder of Israel’s history as foreigners in Egypt and a command to treat immigrants with dignity and love. Similarly, Deuteronomy 10:18-19 describes God as one who loves and defends the cause of the foreigner, providing for their needs.
As believers, we are also called to obey the laws of the land. Romans 13:1-7 reminds us to submit to governing authorities, as they are established by God to maintain order. However, this submission is not unconditional—it must align with God’s higher law. When the laws of the land directly contradict God’s Word, we are called to obey God rather than human authorities (Acts 5:29).
At the same time, facing consequences, such as prison, should not surprise anyone for breaking the law. Justice and accountability are biblical principles. If we willingly break the law, we must also accept the consequences of those actions.
If you were blessed enough to be born in the United States, see it as a gift. Millions of people around the world would take your spot in a heartbeat. Speaking as someone who has done ministry across the globe, I’ve seen firsthand the harsh realities of life in slums in places like South Africa, Zambia, and Haiti. When you’ve witnessed children scavenging for food and families struggling just to survive, it becomes clear how many would risk everything for the opportunities many Americans take for granted.
This doesn’t mean dismissing challenges in our own country, but it does call for gratitude and a willingness to use our blessings to bless others.
A biblical perspective also calls us to balance compassion and justice. Micah 6:8 provides a framework for this balance:
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
As we navigate immigration issues, this means advocating for just policies that protect the vulnerable while respecting the rule of law. It also means extending compassion to those in need, regardless of their legal status.
Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of loving and welcoming others. In Matthew 25:35, He says:
“I was a stranger and you invited me in.”
Our response to immigrants, like all people, is ultimately an act of faithfulness to Christ.
If I were ever allowed to preach God’s Word to a President, my approach would be simple: I would faithfully and without compromise preach the Word of God. I would trust the Holy Spirit to bring conviction where it is needed. My job as a preacher is not to manipulate hearts but to proclaim the truth in love and let God do the transforming work.
As believers, our focus should always be on aligning our lives and attitudes with Scripture. Whether we are addressing leaders, neighbors, or even our own families, our goal should be to reflect the heart of God: a heart of justice, mercy, and truth.
I realize this is a challenging and multifaceted issue, and I welcome your biblical thoughts. How do you see the balance between compassion and justice in this conversation? What Scriptures guide your perspective?