That gives us plenty to unpack right there. First, we are commanded not to mistreat foreigners. That means treating people who aren't "from here" with dignity and respect. Does it mean open borders? No, we need to protect our citizens, too. But we need to take care of those among us who weren't born here. Next, we need to take care of widows and orphans. Paul made this very clear when he said that true religion is taking care of widows and orphans. Throughout much of history, widows and orphans were powerless, helpless people who were often taken advantage of.
And finally, we need to stop murdering the innocent. Some would say that means abolishing the death penalty. Other would say that means no more abortion. And yet another group would say that we should stop killing animals and eating them. So we don't all agree on who "the innocent" are. But we CAN work toward a more kind and loving system, where criminals are held for life instead of given capital punishment. Where abortion is not the recourse for women because they're given enough help and support that they can follow their dreams without giving up their baby. Where animals, if used for food, are treated with great respect and slaughtered in a humane way, but while we also look for alternatives to eating them so that our food can be cruelty free.
These are high ideals, but that's what God calls us to. Take care of the foreigner. Look after the widow and orphan. And stop killing the innocent. Let's work toward this in our personal lives, and let's enact legislation to make this a reality for everyone.
God, thanks for telling us how to be kind.
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