Caring for the Stranger With Love
Being new to a country can make familiar tasks harder: understanding a notice, finding a service, or entering a room where a different language is spoken. A thoughtful welcome pays attention to those practical details.
love those who are foreigners,
(Deuteronomy 10:19, NIV, excerpt)
In Deuteronomy 10, Moses calls Israel to love and obey the Lord. God’s impartial justice and care for vulnerable people ground the command to love foreigners. Israel is also told to remember its own history as foreigners in Egypt.
Offer welcome with curiosity and respect
As Christians reading this passage, we can consider how love of neighbor shapes our welcome. Learn names carefully and ask what kind of help is wanted.
Connect with a trusted local organization or church ministry already serving newcomers. Follow their guidance and listen to the people they serve.
Practical care might include clear information, language support from someone qualified, or an invitation to a community meal. Honor each person’s choices, abilities, and privacy.
Ask Jesus to expose prejudice and grow sincere respect in your heart. Receive what new neighbors bring to the community as you look for appropriate ways to help.
A prayer
Lord, teach us to love our neighbors with humility and practical care. Forgive prejudice and help us welcome people with respect. Guide our churches in trustworthy service, shared friendship, and faithful witness to Jesus. Amen.
Read Deuteronomy 10:12-22 in the NIV.
Keep reading: Making Room for New Friendships in a New Season · Noticing the Worker It Is Easy to Walk Past.
Free artwork for you
A thoughtful welcome makes room for a neighbor's voice and gifts.
Open the full-size artwork to save or print · Save this artwork on Pinterest