The immigration crisis in America is reaching a boiling point. A few days ago, protests erupted across California—some peaceful, others destructive. We saw American flags burned, police vehicles vandalized, and anger spilling into the streets. It was a sobering reminder that we are a divided people.
Beyond the headlines and politics, real people are afraid—people in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and even churches. Some fear deportation and what it means for their families. Yet, with millions disregarding immigration laws, often without consequence, it frustrates others. A conflict exists among many people between their compassion for immigrants and their conviction that justice and order must prevail. Those events have only deepened these divides, making meaningful dialogue even harder.
In all of this, how should we, as Christians, respond?
Justice and Mercy: A Biblical Perspective
Scripture calls us to uphold both justice and mercy, not one at the expense of the other. Scripture commands us to care for the foreigner (Leviticus 19:34), recognizing that God made all people in his image (Genesis 1:27). At the same time, we are instructed to respect the rule of law (Romans 13:1-7), as long as it maintains just order. These are not contradictory ideas; they form a biblical tension that requires wisdom, discernment, and courage.
Jesus Himself exemplified this balance. He extended mercy to sinners but never excused sin (John 8:11). He fulfilled the law, not abolished it (Matthew 5:17). As Christians, we must walk in this same truth—upholding righteousness while extending grace, supporting just laws while demonstrating holy love.
Why Law and Order Matter
Many well-meaning Christians struggle with the idea of deportation, especially when families are involved. It is undoubtedly difficult. But if we begin picking and choosing which laws to follow based on feelings or circumstances—no matter how compelling—we set a dangerous precedent. Law and order are not optional; they are the backbone of a just society. Nations have a right to know who resides within their borders and to regulate entry.
Are there unjust laws? Yes. And when a law is truly unjust—when it violates God’s standards of righteousness—we have a duty to oppose it. But immigration laws, broadly speaking, are not inherently unjust. Justice requires that laws be applied fairly and consistently to all people. If a law is flawed, the right response is to seek legal reform, not to encourage lawlessness.
Illegal entry creates an unjust situation. Regardless of their reasons, those who bypass the legal process do so ahead of others who follow the law. While there are understandable motives for this, does it justify disregarding the legal process? For Christians who have done so, is defying the law truly God-glorifying?
Society often expects the Christian community to embrace undocumented immigrants without question, but the responsibility for such situations ultimately lies with those who choose to disregard the law. While Christians must minister to all people, we can’t dismiss truth-telling. Compassion does not require ignoring legal realities, nor does upholding the law demand a lack of mercy. A true Christian response acknowledges both the dignity of every individual and the necessity of justice, ensuring that grace and accountability shape our approach to this issue.
Compassion Without Chaos
Many immigrants have come here seeking safety, stability, and a better future. Others may have been brought here as children and know no other home. These are real struggles, and they deserve to be met with understanding and care. However, compassion does not mean ignoring the law, and justice does not mean treating people as if they have no worth.
Imagine a mother who has lived here for years, working hard and raising children, now uncertain about their future. This fear is the painful reality many face. Yet, as difficult as it is, the reality remains—her situation stems from entering or remaining in the country unlawfully. This does not mean she is without dignity or worth. But, it is a decision of consequence to reckon with.
The role of Christians is not to break families apart but to uphold justice while offering hope. We must acknowledge the realities of immigration law and the personal hardships of those affected. Fear of deportation can weigh heavily on those without legal status, but rather than living in uncertainty, they should seek legal options where possible. While there are no guarantees, available resources can offer pathways to resolution.
A balanced response provides real solutions—helping those who are undocumented to seek legal status, even if the process is long and rigorous. The goal should be to seek legal status while utilizing community and legal resources that can provide guidance and support. The Christian community should be where fear meets hope and truth meets love.
A Call to Action
As Christians, we have an opportunity to lead with truth and justice. Let’s resist the temptation to react emotionally and instead seek solutions with faith.
We don’t have to choose between justice and compassion. We can and must stand for both. To law and love.d love.e and compassion. We can, and must, stand for both. To law and love.