If you have turned on the news anytime in the past few days, you have probably heard what’s going on in LA. Over the weekend, immigration enforcement efforts in Los Angeles served as the ignition point, as coordinated ICE raids across the city sparked violent riots from anti-ICE protesters. However, these protesters are no longer law-abiding in the act of protesting but have instead turned to violence and lawlessness.
Federal immigration enforcement efforts in Los Angeles began on Friday, June 6, with coordinated ICE raids across the city targeting migrants. These operations, which resulted in more than 100 arrests, focused on known areas of unlawful employment and activity, including the Fashion District and commercial hubs.
Among those arrested was 49-year-old Cuong Chanh Phan, an illegal immigrant from Vietnam with a criminal history that includes a conviction for second-degree murder. Phan was convicted of shooting up a high school graduation party after a dispute, killing an 18-year-old and a 15-year-old. Seven others were injured in the incident, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Trump deployed California National Guard troops to Los Angeles on Saturday following the chaotic standoff between protesters and federal immigration authorities. California Gov. Gavin Newsom requested the administration to rescind the deployment, saying Trump is trying “to manufacture a crisis” and that the president is “hoping for chaos so he can justify more crackdowns, more fear, more control.” DHS released a statement on Saturday noting it took the LAPD two hours to respond to the Roybal Federal Building, despite multiple calls. “Last night, over 1,000 rioters surrounded a federal law enforcement building and assaulted ICE law enforcement officers, slashed tires, defaced buildings, and taxpayer-funded property,” according to DHS. “Our ICE enforcement officers are facing a 413% increase in assaults against them. Disturbingly, in recent days, ICE officers’ family members have been dox[x]ed and targeted as well.” Newsom, meanwhile, strongly condemned President Trump’s decision to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles without state consent, labeling the move as “purposefully inflammatory.”
A Christian perspective on the matter
‘Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. ‘ Romans 13:1-2
As Christians, we are not given freedom and liberty to only turn around and rebel and resist those in authority over us. Instead, we are called to show honor and respect to them while understanding that it was God who established these authorities for a purpose. It is essential to recognize that our obedience to earthly leaders reflects our obedience to God Himself. “Give unto Caesar what is Caesar’s” reminds us that part of our Christian duty is to uphold the laws and structures of our society, as long as they do not contradict the divine principles set forth in God’s Word. By doing so, we can cultivate a spirit of cooperation and positive engagement, setting an example for others and demonstrating our faith through our actions. In a world filled with chaos and disobedience, our willingness to uphold these standards can be a powerful testimony of God’s order and love, reminding us that our ultimate allegiance rests with Him and His kingdom.
As for immigration and laws pertaining to it, we are to obey and encourage others to obey as well. It truly stinks for those who have set up families here and have lived here for many years to be removed. These individuals have invested so much emotionally and financially into their lives in this country, establishing roots that are difficult to sever. However, it is important to acknowledge that they knew the risks associated with living in another country illegally and transgressing the law. The law has not changed but is merely finally being enforced and upheld, as it should be. There will be justice, and the sword of the government will be wielded to rectify these violations. Those being deported are here wrongfully and must return from where they belong; it’s a painful reality for many, but one that must be faced in light of the law. Immigration is a good thing, considering that my family was once immigrants too, however, it can only remain positive as long as it is respected and not taken advantage of. We have seen firsthand what many years of weak, if not nonexistent, enforcement of immigration laws has done to this country; it has led to a rise in criminal activity as some exploit the system to prey on the vulnerable, often without facing any consequences. Now is the time to strengthen our borders and secure our nation, so that we may stand united and protect our shared values and safety. In due time, we must also seek to correct our immigration procedures and policies to ensure fairness and justice for all. Until then, we remain loyal citizens of this nation, advocating for its decisions in deporting those who are here wrongfully, which in this case means those residing here illegally. It is vital to uphold the integrity of our immigration system while balancing compassion and lawfulness to create a society where everyone can thrive.
Let me be clear and say that the ongoing riots are sinful and wicked! They are in direct opposition to God’s commands.
Borders
‘And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place,’ – Acts 17:26
‘When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance, when he divided mankind, he fixed the borders of the peoples according to the number of the sons of God.’ – Deuteronomy 32:8
Borders have been set from the very beginning, it is nothing new. God has set up each and every nation, instructing them on security and governance. The preservation of culture, identity, and values is intrinsically tied to the concept of borders, which serve as the physical embodiment of a nation’s sovereignty. And the best way to have a thriving country is by having its people feel protected and secure. This sense of protection comes not only from a strong military presence but also through the establishment of well-defined borders, keeping out those who would do harm and compromise that which has been set up. It enables nations to control their resources, manage immigration, and foster a sense of belonging among their citizens. It is the right of each nation to set up and maintain borders, no one can simply say borders are unjust and unfair without understanding their purpose. Borders are a crucial thing in order to separate those who are citizens from those who are not, thus ensuring that the rights and responsibilities of citizenship are respected and upheld. Without such borders, the fabric of society could unravel, leading to chaos and instability, undermining the social contract that enables nations to function cohesively.
Immigration
“You shall not wrong a sojourner or oppress him, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt.” – Exodus 22:21
‘ “When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God. ‘ – Leviticus 19:33-34
Immigration is no new thing; it has been happening for thousands of years, shaping civilizations and creating cultural exchanges that change societies. Whether it be the breakout of war, famine, and drought, or simply the pursuit of new opportunities, the movement of people across borders has been a constant in human history. Sojourners was just an old testament word for immigrant, referring to individuals who didn’t belong or were misplaced, often seeking a better life in unfamiliar territories. These journeys, marked by hope and resilience, reflect the universal human desire for safety, stability, and prosperity, pushing individuals to leave behind all that is familiar in search of new beginnings and a brighter future for themselves and their families in a rapidly changing world.
‘Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. ‘ – Hebrews 13:2
‘Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.’ – 1 Peter 2:11
As sojourners ourselves, we should treat immigrants well and love them as our proper neighbor. That can look like many different things such as feeding and caring for them, as well as witnessing to them during moments of joy or struggle. It can also mean offering practical support, such as helping them navigate local resources or providing guidance on adapting to a new culture. Encouraging them to pursue becoming a legal citizen is a vital part of this relationship, and sometimes that can only happen by them returning to their original country and applying for citizenship from there. We must recognize the challenges they face in doing so, from emotional hurdles to bureaucratic obstacles. But while they are here, we are instructed to treat them with love and hospitality. By fostering connections with immigrants, we not only enrich their lives but also advance the kingdom of God by our love and witnessing to them.
Conclusion
‘Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.’ – 1 Peter 2:17
In closing, show hospitality to all, making everyone feel valued, regardless of their background. Honor and respect those in authority, recognizing that leadership carries a significant responsibility to the public. Submit to the law, not only as a duty but as a means of fostering a just society, and seek justice relentlessly, advocating for fairness. Love thy neighbor genuinely and conduct thyself as a law-abiding citizen, contributing positively to one’s nation. Call out that which is wicked and evil, standing firm against injustice, while promoting and encouraging that which is good, inspiring others to do the same and create a better world for future generations.
*warning video below does have heavy language in it
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