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Our God Is Undocumented: Biblical Faith and Immigrant Justice
The principle of hospitality and the commandment to welcome the stranger are among the most consistent themes of the Bible. How does that apply to the question of undocumented immigrants in our own country? In recent years the question of immigration has become a target of heated political controversy, one that reaches into nearly every community in the country. How does our biblical faith address this issue? And how should people of faith respond? In alternating chapters the authors of this book address these questions, examining the biblical dimensions of hospitality, sanctuary, and immigration, while also relating the actual stories of immigrants why they come, what they seek, what they endure as well as the stories of those who help them.
228 pages, Paperback
First published January 20, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
May 13, 2018
Torn between 3 and 4 on this one - a 3.5 if it were possible!
Unlike some other more mainstream books on immigration justice and Christianity, this one names within a few pages of its introduction that it is "not neutral" and it is so, so much better for it! Rather than the maddening back and forth of "Some people feel this way, but others feel this way,"(cough Welcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion Truth in the Immigration Debate cough) it comes at us directly with boldness and some real conviction. While some may not consider that the most adept bride building technique, I think some issues I am less concerned with coaxing people into crossing the bridge and more interested in showing them this is simply a bridge they have to cross to get where they want to go. I appreciate and respect when an author knows they stand upon a frequently ignored biblical truth and are confident in what they say because of that, which is the case here.
The book was not perfect, particularly stemming from the disjointed element of it being co-authored. Myers and Colwell traded off each chapter, with Myers providing biblical and theological grounding and Colwell telling stories of people whose lives have been shaped by immigration and the justice work surrounding it - sort of an orthodoxy-to-orthopraxy model. The issue is that Myers writing is surprisingly dense and academic for this type of mainstream work, while Colwell's is pretty breezy and casual, so when read side-by-side it can be a little jarring or awkward. Some of my housemates had a particularly challenging time reading Myers sections, which is a warning rather than a critique, as his were definitely my favorite.
In fact, the true highlight of the book for me is the genuinely creative, thoughtful, and nuanced exegetical biblical studies work that is accomplished by Myers and the theological explorations that result from that. He offers some fresh readings like the Tower of Babel and Pentecost being affirmations of the value of diversity, Jesus's first sermon as a model for radical inclusion, an anti-nativism reading of the nativity stories, etc. Running through all of that is his theological argument that the Christian God is undocumented and that Jesus is a refugee, two notions that I found to be compelling and powerful.
Unlike some other more mainstream books on immigration justice and Christianity, this one names within a few pages of its introduction that it is "not neutral" and it is so, so much better for it! Rather than the maddening back and forth of "Some people feel this way, but others feel this way,"(cough Welcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion Truth in the Immigration Debate cough) it comes at us directly with boldness and some real conviction. While some may not consider that the most adept bride building technique, I think some issues I am less concerned with coaxing people into crossing the bridge and more interested in showing them this is simply a bridge they have to cross to get where they want to go. I appreciate and respect when an author knows they stand upon a frequently ignored biblical truth and are confident in what they say because of that, which is the case here.
The book was not perfect, particularly stemming from the disjointed element of it being co-authored. Myers and Colwell traded off each chapter, with Myers providing biblical and theological grounding and Colwell telling stories of people whose lives have been shaped by immigration and the justice work surrounding it - sort of an orthodoxy-to-orthopraxy model. The issue is that Myers writing is surprisingly dense and academic for this type of mainstream work, while Colwell's is pretty breezy and casual, so when read side-by-side it can be a little jarring or awkward. Some of my housemates had a particularly challenging time reading Myers sections, which is a warning rather than a critique, as his were definitely my favorite.
In fact, the true highlight of the book for me is the genuinely creative, thoughtful, and nuanced exegetical biblical studies work that is accomplished by Myers and the theological explorations that result from that. He offers some fresh readings like the Tower of Babel and Pentecost being affirmations of the value of diversity, Jesus's first sermon as a model for radical inclusion, an anti-nativism reading of the nativity stories, etc. Running through all of that is his theological argument that the Christian God is undocumented and that Jesus is a refugee, two notions that I found to be compelling and powerful.
September 3, 2018
This book was published in 2012... long before the most recent political controversies. It looks at immigration from a biblical perspective...not a political one, and clearly makes the point about how Jesus would view the treatment of immigrants, asylum seekers, and anyone who is powerless and being abused by power.The odd numbered chapters discuss immigration issues and cite biblical verses that support diversity, inclusion,hospitality,refugees, and "otherness." The even-numbered chapters give examples of people who have been inspired to take action to help those who show up on our doorstep in need. "Truly,I say to you,as you did it unto one of the least of these, you did it unto me."
March 28, 2019
What an amazing book. It was challenging, eye opening, and heart breaking. Using biblical lessons/history/Jesus’ teachings and stories from our current immigration’s front line, this book is an incredible educational journey into what it means, and what it looks like, to love your neighbor. Highly, highly recommend this book.
February 7, 2022
If you are a Christian uncertain about the case for immigration reform, here is the book for you. The chapters alternate between Biblical exegesis on the topic of the treatment of immigrants (strangers/sojourners/aliens) and short biographies of those working for immigration justice in the U.S. in recent years. This feature also makes the book a good candidate for group study or even for a sermon series.
Highly Recommended.
Highly Recommended.
January 20, 2023
Myers and Colwell write about immigration justice in chapters that alternate between theological reflections and immigrant stories. In general, I enjoyed the biblical insights more, especially in Chapter 1, which contrasts Babel and Pentecost through their linguistic particularities.
August 6, 2012
I think this book offers an outstanding and original Biblical perspective on immigration issues, highlighted with varied contemporary immigrant experiences. It certainly deserves more attention from the faith community and beyond. Ched Myers offers scholarly, insightful and surprising Biblical insight.
September 7, 2012
Through clear, vibrant biblical exegesis, sociological analysis, and heart-wrenching personal profiles, Meyers and Colwell leave no doubt that authentic christian discipleship entails the radical inclusion of the immigrant--God's kingdom has no borders and requires no documentation.
July 24, 2013
This is an excellent book in immigration in the U.S. today. It combines Biblical studies with personal stories in a very engaging manner.
June 19, 2017
Excellent look at immigrant through the lens of a faith perspective rather than a nationalist perspective. The author provides a solid lens through the social sciences, through Biblical exegesis, and through the lived experiences of those who are working for immigrant justice and those who have been recipients of inhumane treatment.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews