As a
Christian there are aspects of President Trump’s so-called immigration ban that
are on the surface troubling. Some have thus stated their opposition to the ban
based on theological concerns. Many of these are planning a boycott, or
organized resistance as a way to mark their disapproval. Generally,
however I am opposed to these efforts, for I believe that they are largely ineffective
and even counter-productive. So, given that there are some concerns with the
ban, or more precisely with the language and implementation of the ban, while also
recognizing a reticence with the use of political activism, how then should a
thoughtful Christian respond?
There are perhaps
many options. However, these are my thoughts on this subject. I claim no moral
high-ground, nor demand a fealty to my conclusions; as they are mere
suggestions, since I believe all Christians have the freedom of conscience to
follow God as they see fit.
First I
agree that among our Christian duties is the call to stand-up for the disenfranchised
and needy. The refugees in the Middle East and northern Africa are among the
most in need of support. Images of them suffering are seen regularly on the television.
It is heartbreaking.
Yet I also recognize
that this part is world—partially because it is troubled—has become a hotbed
for terror groups who are at war with Western Civilization. To deny this is to
deny reality. Almost weekly a successful plot has been pulled off in Europe or
in the Middle East. Hotels airports and other places where Westerners have
gathered are being targeted. For this reason, the President instated this ban.
It is meant to be temporary. It is meant as a stop-gap to allow for a necessary
review and overhaul of our nation’s intelligence and security apparatus.
I am not
privy to this intelligence therefore; I must trust that those in authority—who have
the ability to look and analyze this information—will make the proper
decisions, for the good of the nation. To speak out against something based on
limited—and often—incorrect information is, I believe, wrong. It connotes a
type of arrogance; that we are able to better understand the complexities of a
situation than those who are actually in power. It also appears to manifest as
cynicism in our government—a cynical belief that our leaders are not working in
the nation’s best interest. This cynicism often leads to distrust and
antipathy, which can have a deleterious effect on peace.
It is true
that we are to be critical of the government. Our faith does not call for blind
allegiance, but neither does it call for an overly antagonist approach. We
should be circumspect; not jumping to conclusions, but recognizing our own
biases and hostilities, approach the topic with patience and humility, giving
it both the time and the space—free from animosity—to work.
Second I think we need to recognize that this ban is, like
most things, subject to change. Most people seem in agreement that the
executive order was not well-crafted. This created confusion and hostility.
People were caught in the maelstrom that followed. Some of these stories have
become plastered in the news by those who are opposed to the decision. I hope
that these people do not become mere pawns for political propaganda. To avoid this,
those in the faith community should be reluctant to base objections on these
heart-tugging stories, as it is difficult to know for sure whether there are
other factors at play in these specific cases. We also do not know what
happened behind the scenes. It is thus very easy to believe these stories of
suffering without further investigating their veracity. Rather we should strive to become as educated
as possible. This will help to temper the often unsubstantiated claims that run
rampant in social media.
Thirdly we need to use the right words in describing the
situation, and thereby avoiding “bearing false witness”. One of the problems
with most discussions of this ban is the mis-use of the phrase “banning Muslims”. This executive order, as written, does not
mention Muslims or any other religious group by name. Leaving questions of
intent aside, it would seem prudent to at least let the order speak for itself,
and thus critique on its own merits—as a geographical ban—than on a supposed
ethno-religious ban. Words are often loaded in today’s political climate. Yet,
our goal as Christians should be in clarifying and in promoting
peace and comity.
Likewise in our attempt to be as honest and forthright as
possible, we need to also admit that this ban, even if largely affecting
Muslims from the Middle East and northern Africa, does not purport to mean all
Muslims worldwide. It is easy to use the term “Muslim” as a shorthand way of
describing the ban, but the effect of using this word, is that it is often
conflated to me all followers of Islam. If that was the intent or practice of
such a ban, then it would be unconstitutional and rightly criticized for this
is not a nation of only one faith tradition. However, this is not its purpose.
We should be clear on that point, even if we have concerns about its
implementation.
Objections to this ban are valid. We should not demonize
those who are opposed to this ban, and who feel that it is a sad indictment of
the president’s views. But neither should we demonize those who are in favor of
it, and who feel that this is a necessary and temporary order so that our
nation’s intelligence and security can be thoroughly overhauled. Those on both
sides of this issue are motivated by their Christian ideals. We need to respect
those who disagree, even vehemently with us.
Finally what we can do? We can pray. We can, and should pray
for those who are fleeing persecution and terror, and for all of those groups
like the Red Cross that are helping re-locate those at need. We should also
pray for our military, president and others who are likewise concerned with our
nation’s security. Lastly we can pray for our nation, that we will not let this
ban become a shibboleth, dividing us into polarized camps. Rather we should
pray for understanding and peace, recognizing that regardless of our position “we
see only in part” (1st Corinthians 13:12). Humility, temperance and honesty are
as important Christian virtues as compassion and empathy. Our overriding goal
should be to live in peace with each other.
