Document Type

Book

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

The lectionary readings for this week provide a critical theological lens through which we may examine immigrant issues currently confronting the United States. Who are the foreigners and immigrants who have come to share and enjoy the abundance, either material or spiritual, of this “God-blessed America”? What should be the social attitude of previous residents in America toward these late arrivals? What relationship does God desire to create among people who have begun to mix in with the rest of society? The Genesis reading advises, “Welcome immigrants who bring many blessings of God,” while Isaiah says, “Worship together in joyful unity.” In a similar vein, the psalms praise the joyfulness of all kindred living together in sacred unity (133:1) and God’s saving power among all nations and people (67:2–3), while the evangelist Matthew and the apostle Paul uphold the mercy of God abundantly given to Jews and Gentiles; that is, upon all races, nationalities, cultures, social classes, and genders, without discrimination.

Comments

Originally published in “Proper 15 [20]” in Preaching for Social Justice and Transformation, Three Volume Commentary Lectionary Series Vol. III (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2013), 358-363

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