In what ways can we "love the foreigner" as instructed in Deuteronomy 10:18? Understanding the Command • Deuteronomy 10:18-19: “He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing. So you also are to love the foreigner, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt.” • The Lord’s own actions toward the outsider become our pattern. The mandate is active—love is to be shown, not merely felt. Seeing God’s Heart • Justice: God “executes justice,” ensuring fair treatment and protection (Psalm 146:9). • Provision: He “gives … food and clothing,” meeting tangible needs (Matthew 6:31-32). • Compassion rooted in memory: “You were foreigners” reminds Israel—and us—of former helplessness (Exodus 22:21). Practical Ways to Love the Foreigner Hospitality • Open your home and table (Hebrews 13:2). • Assist with temporary housing or host holiday meals when family is far away. Provision • Donate groceries, clothing, school supplies, or gift cards. • Offer help with transportation, childcare, or navigating local services. Advocacy and Fairness • Stand against exploitation and discrimination in workplaces, housing, and courts (Leviticus 19:33-34). • Volunteer with legal-aid ministries or ESL programs to minimize barriers. Community Inclusion • Invite newcomers into church life—small groups, service teams, and fellowship events. • Pair long-time members with newcomers for mentorship and friendship. Cultural Respect • Learn basic greetings in their language. • Celebrate cultural holidays together, affirming the image of God displayed in every ethnicity (Acts 17:26-27). Gospel Witness • Share Scripture in understandable language (Acts 2:6-11). • Provide Bibles, offer to read John’s Gospel together, and explain salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). Employment and Skill Building • Help with résumés, job searches, and interview practice. • Offer training in budgeting, language, or professional certifications. Prayerful Support • Regularly pray with and for immigrant families, bringing needs before the Father (1 Timothy 2:1). Motivations Rooted in Redemption • We imitate the Savior, who “though He was rich … became poor” to welcome us (2 Corinthians 8:9). • Obedience flows from gratitude: once strangers to the covenants, now brought near by Christ’s blood (Ephesians 2:12-13). • Loving the foreigner anticipates the heavenly multitude “from every nation” worshiping the Lamb (Revelation 7:9-10). Guardrails and Encouragements • Depend on the Spirit; love is a fruit, not a self-generated effort (Galatians 5:22). • Serve with humility, recognizing needs may differ from assumptions. • Persevere—relationships take time, yet even small acts echo God’s generous heart. |
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