Earthly tensions: the migrant's journey

Leaving a country of origin, especially through an airport, can generate various stresses for a migrant, especially if their status is irregular or they are in a context of forced migration. Fear and anxiety arise from immigration controls, the possibility of being detained or deported, interrogations, and the anguish of being separated from friends or family.

In addition, there's uncertainty and disorientation to deal with unfamiliar procedures, especially if you don't speak the language. The lack of information about immigration rights and procedures, the sudden change of environment, and exposure to a different culture add to the stress. And what about the emotional and psychological strain caused by goodbyes? Even if everything is in order, saying goodbye to family members and feeling lonely can be emotionally difficult.

Heavenly Citizenship: A Divine Entrance Pass.

Perhaps we will never experience such a moment in our lives; however, as Christians, we must recognize ourselves as strangers and pilgrims on this earth. The moment we receive this new citizenship is marked by recognizing Christ as Savior and accepting His sacrifice on our behalf by faith. From that moment on, although we live and belong to this earth, our citizenship and belonging lie elsewhere. The Bible records it this way:

"But we are citizens of heaven, and we eagerly await to receive the Savior from it, the Lord Jesus Christ." (Philippians 3:20)  

"I urge you, dear brothers and sisters, as strangers and exiles in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul." (1 Peter 2:11)  

What a difference! When we pass through the airport that grants us entry to heaven, there are no more agonizing tensions, no immigration controls, no sad goodbyes, no fear of being deported, no anguish over not having the right papers. Our entry pass is direct; a great welcoming celebration awaits us. None of this is because of anything we did, nor because of our last name or country of origin; it is all because of grace, Jesus' undeserved favor in us.

Living as pilgrims: between two worlds.

However, while we are on earth, we live in constant tension between earthly desires and the longing for heaven, and the struggle to live according to the values of the kingdom in a world that contradicts them. All struggles, bitter moments, and suffering will be left behind when we enter our new homeland, where there will be no more pain or sadness, because God himself will be our comfort (Revelation 21:4) through heavenly citizenship. For this reason, we can identify with migrants and foreigners around the world. This identification should move us toward the Great Commission; they need to know this good news and the hope in which we live.

Although the issue of migration is complex and multifaceted, in countries like Mexico and Central America, many churches have established shelters and refuges for migrants traveling to the United States, offering food, clothing, English classes, and emotional support. What things bind me to this world and prevent me from living fully as a citizen of heaven? How can I cultivate a greater longing for my heavenly home? How can I rely on my faith community to sustain me on my journey? How can I reflect Christ's love to the strangers around me?

Prayer for migrants:

Lord Jesus, we are so grateful that, through your death on the Cross, you gave us access to a new eternal citizenship in heaven. Help us to live with our eyes fixed on this. Develop in us a compassionate heart for the stranger and the migrant, for we ourselves are one of them. We pray that we may share this hope with this community that so desperately needs to find its true home in you.

In your name, amen. 

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Student: Martha Rodríguez

Puerto Rico

Student: Norma González

USA