18/07 • IMMIGRATION

Anti immigration rhetoric.

We cannot ignore the anti-immigration positions being provoked by politicians.

This rhetoric is evident around the world, including the US, UK, Europe, and New Zealand, where political and social climates have increasingly fostered exclusionary attitudes.  This is increasingly relevant in 2024 with many of these countries going to the polls.
 
While it is true that over recent years there has been a spike in migration, it’s also true that many of these people are risking their lives to flee war, persecution, poverty, and environmental disasters. This is driven by a desperate hope for safety and a better future. 

Anti immigration rhetoric is framed and formatted in many different ways. In the United States, prominent politicians and their supporters invoke nationalism and security concerns to justify restrictive immigration policies. In his bid for re-election President Donald Trump argues that immigration poses economic and safety threats. This discourse appeals to fear and xenophobia rather than compassion and hospitality.
 
In the UK, right-wing figures have capitalised on Brexit-related anxieties to frame the issue. Politicians like Nigel Farage have described immigration as a challenge to British identity and economic stability. Leaders like Viktor Orbán in Hungary are promoting strict immigration controls to preserve what they call "Christian Europe.” In New Zealand, the anti-immigration discourse has been less intense but still present. 
 
While each issue is framed differently, the core messaging is the same: immigrants are coming for your jobs, your lives, and your culture.  
 
This stance is antithetical to biblical principles, particularly Matthew 22:39 - "love your neighbour as yourself". The biblical narrative consistently advocates for protecting the vulnerable and offering refuge to those in need. It urges believers to act with compassion and empathy. Jesus’ own teaching in Matthew 25:35-40 shows him identifying with a stranger and commanding his followers to welcome them. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) challenges prejudiced attitudes, demonstrating that true neighbourly love transcends ethnic and cultural barriers. 
 
We cannot invalidate the fears and concerns of those who feel threatened by immigration.

Economic uncertainty, cultural changes, and security concerns are legitimate issues that need thoughtful consideration. But there are better ways to approach the issue that to simply dehumanise people who don't look or sound like us. Addressing the root causes of migration, such as poverty, violence and lack of opportunities is a deeply biblical way to help those who have no other choice but to flee their homes.

By investing in development and humanitarian assistance, wealthier nations can help create conditions where people can live safely and thrive in their own countries. This approach aligns with the biblical call for justice and mercy. It's a way to ensure that we can support those who are vulnerable and uphold the dignity of all people. 
 
Our shared humanity means we have far more in common than divisive political rhetoric may suggest. We must lean into that shared humanity, holding the practicalities of governance in balance with seeing people as neighbours and not threats.

Prayer points: 

We pray for compassion. We ask God to open our hearts to see immigrants and refugees as our neighbours, deserving of love and dignity, and to help us follow Jesus' example of welcoming the stranger. 

We pray for protection and provision. We lift up those fleeing their homes due to war, persecution, poverty, and disasters, ask for their safety, provision, and for opportunities to rebuild their lives. 

We pray for wisdom and balanced solutions. We seek God's wisdom for leaders to create balanced immigration policies that address the concerns of native populations while showing compassion and justice to immigrants. 

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