Welcoming the Stranger

Back in January we had a visit from the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Rt Rev Dr Michael Barry. Those who were with us will remember how Michael encouraged us to relate with warmth and welcome to others within our local communities. Yesterday (13th) following a number of attacks on the North Belfast Polish community, the Moderator issued a statement on behalf of Presbyterians across Ireland. The full statement can be read by clicking here.

The Bible has a lot to say, to followers of Jesus, about welcoming those who come from other countries, and who start life among us as 'strangers'. Time and again in the Bible we are reminded of the importance of being warm and generous in our welcome.

One Old Testament book puts it like this:

'Do not exploit the foreigners who live in your land. They should be treated like everyone else, and you must love them as you love yourself.' (Leviticus 19: 33-34)

In the ordinary everyday things of life let us all be on the look out for opportunities to be good neighbours to all, and to be people whose welcome is genuine and practical.