As we enter the presidential campaign season, we can expect more and more presidential candidates to visit our state. Nevada could be crucial in determining both each partyâ??s presidential nominee and, as one of just a few genuine swing states, the results of the general election. As an evangelical pastor, Iâ??ll have one consistent question for candidates seeking my vote: Where do they stand on immigration reform?
My views are informed by the teachings of the Bible, which actually has a lot to say on the topic of immigration. Many of the heroes of the Christian faith â?? from Abraham to Joseph to Ruth to Jesus â?? were immigrants, and God tells his people on many occasions to treat immigrants with compassion. Jesus reached out in kindness to the Samaritans, the marginalized foreigners of the society in which he lived. The Apostle Paul described the immigrant experience as a metaphor for the Christian life, reminding Jesusâ?? followers that their ultimate citizenship is in heaven.
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