Book Review: Welcoming the Stranger

I was asked to review the book Welcoming the Stranger, and quickly
accepted the assignment because as a U.S. citizen and also as a Christian
I have found myself at a loss for words on how to adequately reconcile
the immigration debate that rages on in our nation.  I was eager
to read a book that spoke not just of biblical commands and references
to immigration, but also discussed practical legislation that is directly affecting
the United States and all who call this country home.

It is clear from the very beginning that Matt and Jenny have had extensive
and very personal interactions with immigrants and have personal not
just professional connections to the appropriate needs of immigrants. 
They both work for the organization World Relief, Matt is an immigration
and citizenship counselor and Jenny is a director of advocacy and policy. With their professional knowledge they give clear, comprehensive
answers to some of the most challenging issues that are connected with
immigration.  On a personal level Jenny’s parents migrated to
the United States and Matt lives in a building in Chicago with many
immigrant neighbors. 

The book is a combination of biblical principles and legislative policies.  If you are interested in the dialogue of immigration this book is
a great tool to learn about the intricacies of what to means to lives
in a country not of your origin or your family’s origin.  This book is an aide anyone who struggles to understand
what and who is at stake as our country struggles to reconcile the needs of immigrants with politics. The book is not polemical but a good discussion starter.

That being said,this book showed me the deep moral gaps in our immigration system and how
Christians, whether directly or indirectly, support a system that in
many aspects borders on criminal and inspired me to fight for justice as an advocate of God’s kingdom.  I strongly encourage all Christians to pick this book up right now and be challenged by its thoughtful consideration of a complex issue—it is crucial we begin to seriously dialogue this as the Church before the issue gets even more out of hand.