immigration prayer

With the passage of a new immigration law in Arizona this past week, emotions and passions are running high on both sides of the issue. Yet, we should remember that there is a strong spiritual and moral side to this whole issue. To that end, I am inserting a prayer that is from an interfaith organization, and has been adopted by our denomination's office of social justice. Please know that I realize this is a complicated issue with many ins and outs but, my hope is that this prayer will be a way to anchor our confusion to the rock that is Christ Jesus our Lord. And, may we keep the love of God and love of neighbor as our greatest concern for this world.

Grace and Peace

Sample Prayer on the theme of Immigration

Loving God,

We thank you for the gifts that we receive because of the immigrants who are part of our country and our community – for the diversity of art and food and culture, for the businesses and economic benefits, for the rich variety of languages and faces that surround us. We are grateful that you make all human beings in your image, and that we are each able to display your glory uniquely.

We confess that we have not always welcomed the stranger among us with open arms. Our laws have forced many to be separate from their families for decades. Deportations have separated marriages and orphaned children. Fear has left millions living in the shadows, unable to live freely and contribute to our society.

We know it is your desire that all people have the opportunity to flourish, and that we are called to be part of building a kingdom that ensures it. Help us to see the stranger in our midst with new eyes – as your beloved children, dearly loved, and full of promise. Help us to defend them in the face of oppression, to stand up for justice when it is compromised, and to be a people who are not driven first by borders and economies but instead by love and hospitality.

May we welcome immigrants as we have been welcomed by Christ.

Amen