Tuesday of the Twenty-ninth Week in Ordinary Time
(Ephesians
2:12-22; Luke 12:35-38)
The first
reading’s reference to migration touches on a sensitive spot in today’s world. The outcome of the American presidential
elections may turn on the issue of illegal immigration. Writing to Gentile Christians, the apostle tells
the Ephesian community that their migration has ended. They have been accepted as citizens of God’s
household. They have found a home with
the saints.
The passage
shouldn’t be used to warrant acceptance of all migrants today as residents in
the countries of their choice. The migration
issue is complex and defies solution by biblical citation. It would be imprudent for any nation to
welcome all people seeking membership in their society. Yet nations are responsible to welcome innocent
foreigners in danger of their lives.
The pursuit
of equitable solutions is tantamount today.
Governments should cooperate to resolve mass exodus from some countries
and to clear up bottlenecks at international borders. As Catholic Christians we should vote with
immigration in mind. We also need to ask
God for the Spirit’s involvement in lasting solutions to immigration problems.
