A biblical adaptation on Syrian refugees: Jesus was asked, ''Who is my neighbor?'' And Jesus, answering, said: 'A certain Syrian went down to Jericho and fell among terrorists, who destroyed his home, killed his family, wounded him, and departed leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain presidential candidate that way, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side, for it would hurt his poll numbers to be seen with a Muslim.
And likewise a governor, when he was at that place, came and looked at him, and passed by and said he would not help a Muslim, even if he were a 3-year-old orphan.
'But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion on him. ''Which, now, of these three was neighbor unto him that fell among the terrorists?''
The writer could have added that two Senators, the sons of refugees from an oppressive government, also passed that way. But they, having been fully indoctrinated into America’s fear of strangers, averted their gaze and passed on. For if they were to help someone in need, they would have been accused of enabling a freeloader. And a former governor also passed by because the stranger by the road did not share his religion.
As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, it’s worth remembering that Mary, Joseph and Jesus were strangers on the road. Turned away at several inns, they finally found shelter, however meager, through the kindness of someone letting them use the stable.
We have to remember that hospitality was the order of the day in ancient Israel. When a stranger came into the camp, he or she was fed, even if that meant there was less for you or your family. Israel was called to remember that they once were strangers in a strange land and refugees on the road.
As we see the flood of refugees fleeing Syria, we can react with fear or compassion. We can be selfish or generous. But when the angel came to Mary and announced that she was to give birth to the Savior, he told her not to be afraid, for she had found favor with God. And Jesus tells us several times not to be afraid.
Pope Francis has declared a Holy Year of Mercy. And the Jubilee Prayer reminds us that God manifests power above all by forgiveness and mercy and says:
“Let the Church be your visible face in the world, its Lord risen and glorified. You willed that your ministers would also be clothed in weakness in order that they may feel compassion for those in ignorance and error. Let everyone who approaches them feel sought after, loved, and forgiven by God.”
Many of us in this country are descendants of immigrants who came seeking freedom and a better life – and the ability to worship as they wanted. Many of them also suffered from prejudice – the same prejudice we now see being directed at Muslims.
As followers of the merciful Lord, let us be inspired by the Holy Year of Mercy to give comfort to those fleeing oppression – and fight the evil of prejudice wherever we encounter it.
Who is my neighbor? The next person I see.
by Deacon Dick Beercheck
No comments:
Post a Comment