Overview:
ICE raids and detentions without due process have increased under the current presidential administration, leading to fear and vulnerability among immigrants. However, some Christian leaders are silent on the issue and the use of Romans 13:1-3 to justify the deportations is incorrect. The Bible also teaches that love does no harm to a neighbor, and Christians need to speak out against injustice, including ICE raids, to show love and compassion for our neighbors.
Every few years, it seems like I have to write a column asking for real Christians to stand up against a social, racial, or political injustice. This time, I’m asking the same question regarding the recent increase in ICE raids, detentions, and deportations without due process. The fear-inducing policy put into practice by the current presidential administration is inhumane and unnecessarily malicious.
This deportation policy is part of the continuous stream of lies, deception and antagonism that come from the current president and his administration. First, I must admit that I’m horrified at the callous disregard for the value of humans, especially innocent children, some who are now left vulnerable as their parents or guardians have been detained and may ultimately be deported. There are also spouses now left wondering where their partners are. However, I am more shocked at how some lunatics masquerading as men (and women) of God continue to justify what is clearly racist, ungodly and UnChristlike behavior using biblical scripture.
“This is exactly what I voted for!” I’ve seen this phrase posted often over social media as a reaction to the disorder and upheaval regarding the controversial and unstable policies of the current presidential administration. From horrifying ICE raids at businesses, homes, and schools to the recent bombing of another sovereign nation, there is much commentary posted online where people are responding to the seemingly endless barrage of chaotic executive orders and their aftermath. It’s overwhelming looking at the many videos of family members and loved ones crying helplessly as their loved ones are taken away by the masked and menacing ICE “agents.”
Yet, even in the midst of these problematic images, some are gleeful and proudly posting that what is happening is exactly what they expected and voted for. Others state that even though they voted for the current president, what is happening is not what they anticipated. They are understandably now horrified at the daily news stories of the cruelties of the current administration.
“They should obey the law” is one phrase repeated to justify the detentions and deportations. However, I am struck by the silence of so many “Christian” leaders in regard to this issue. We have to do more than encourage congregations to pray for our country. We also have to speak out against specific injustice no matter who it impacts. The irony is that the voices that speak so loudly against abortion have become eerily silent on this issue.
The erroneous use of Romans 13:1-3 to rationalize obeying governmental laws is a textbook example of taking scripture out of context. One-real truth of that chapter is found later at verses 9-10 which encourage “and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.”
Even though some are speaking out, more Christian leaders need to do so. God is watching and looking at our response. May God have mercy on our nation.
Shewanda Riley is a Dallas, Texas based author of “Love Hangover: Moving from Pain to Purpose After a Relationship Ends” and “Writing to the Beat of God’s Heart: A Book of Prayers for Writers.” Email her at preservedbypurpose@gmail.com or follow her on Instagram @shewandawrites.