Living the Gospel
Today’s readings are a stark reminder to the plight of the illegal immigrants on our Southern border. Even while we may struggle to meet our own needs, we remain aware that we live in a land of plenty. Some people scorn the poor and needy. They feel justified in keeping what they have earned for themselves and have little interest in sharing from their abundance. Others encourage the immigrants to come without regard to what happens to them on the way or after they arrive. They feel by doing so, they atone for their guilt of having plenty. People excuse their indifferent behavior by painting all immigrants, legal or illegal, with the same broad brush that reflects their desired view.
The truth exists somewhere between these two extremes. We are called through baptism to help the afflicted. Christianity doesn’t allow for otherwise. The question that is really up for debate is “how.” While most moderates agree that open borders aren’t the solution, few caring persons are in favor of turning our backs to people in need. Finding the right compromise is the challenge that has proved both baffling and divisive.
This is where I break down. While I firmly believe it is incumbent of a true Christian to do what they can, I also feel that it is equally important to discourage the dangerous journey northward and to help the would-be immigrants before they reach our border, sick, destitute and lacking the skills to survive in the new culture. Warned by the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, I worry that the wrong approach will hurt, not help. I would hate to think I was supporting a policy where the newly arrived are locked into second class citizenship.
When I study scripture, I find no well-defined answers to the dilemma. I do know I cannot go to the border in person to help. I lack resources myself and I don’t even speak enough Spanish to communicate. Perhaps this is why Christ doesn’t tell us how to assist those in need. He leaves it up to each individual to find their own best way. I’m reminded of St. Theresa of Calcutta’s admonition “You must find your own Calcutta.” For me, I recognize my Calcutta doesn’t exist on our Southern border, but I’m equally sure that I can give my generous support to organizations like Catholic Charities, and efforts to help victims of hurricanes, tornados, and floods.
We are encouraged to contribute to our own HOPE Appeal to help others in our diocese. Today we are encouraged to also dig into our pockets and give what we can to assist those needing food, medicine, and beds. This is not the time to battle over whose approach is best or who is most deserving. It’s time to be generous. The poor at our door are not limited to those coming in from the south.
Linda Crowley
