A few years ago, a study was done amongst evangelicals about how they felt about undocumented immigrants receiving citizenship (please don't make me find it! I think World Relief was involved) The majority felt that having a path to citizenship was fine, as long as they paid some sort of fine or penalty--nevermind that the vast majority of potential recipients have been paying taxes and getting no benefits or representation from that for years. It struck me as terribly ironic, that those who have received so much for free, and have been commanded to give as they have freely received (Mt 10:8), demanded some sort of payment be made before this "debt" (of being undocumented) could be forgiven!
Great idea - I am always struck by this concept that our society seems to be locked in with - if we paid for something everyone should pay - no matter the cost so to speak. Why is debt forgiveness so hard, or for that matter helping others whether its housing, food or health care or education. We need to get past this mindset - well I had to pay so should everyone else, we have to start somewhere. Maybe a year of Jubilee is the place......
A few years ago, a study was done amongst evangelicals about how they felt about undocumented immigrants receiving citizenship (please don't make me find it! I think World Relief was involved) The majority felt that having a path to citizenship was fine, as long as they paid some sort of fine or penalty--nevermind that the vast majority of potential recipients have been paying taxes and getting no benefits or representation from that for years. It struck me as terribly ironic, that those who have received so much for free, and have been commanded to give as they have freely received (Mt 10:8), demanded some sort of payment be made before this "debt" (of being undocumented) could be forgiven!
You’re absolutely right, Elizabeth. Ironic indeed!
Great idea - I am always struck by this concept that our society seems to be locked in with - if we paid for something everyone should pay - no matter the cost so to speak. Why is debt forgiveness so hard, or for that matter helping others whether its housing, food or health care or education. We need to get past this mindset - well I had to pay so should everyone else, we have to start somewhere. Maybe a year of Jubilee is the place......
Well articulated, Michele. We absolutely need a year of Jubilee given how you’ve framed the status quo!
Thank you Joash, if only we could make this happen