Sanctuary 1

Sanctuary can be defined as a place of refuge and protection from oppression. Years ago I had dinner in Jerusalem with a couple who were from the Netherlands. During WWII they were provided refuge from the Nazi's by a Christian family in the Netherlands.  This kind of civil disobedience and risk-taking is joyfully affirmed when we talk about resistance to the Nazi's or discuss the Underground Railroad that provided refuge and escape for slaves in America.

Christians in Arizona may soon face similar choices. The current issue of Christian Century (June 15, 2010) outlines the challenges. UMC pastor Rosemary Anderson tells about a parishioner who has lived in Phoenix for 20 years. This woman has four children all born in the USA. She recently was stopped by police for driving too slow. She could not provide proof of legal residence. Nothing happened but it was an example of what may be coming. When Arizona SB 1070 takes effect, she could be deported.

I do not suggest that immigration issues are easily resolved. Clearly a criminal element needs to be addressed. But it will be easy to target church going illegals while those posing genuine challenges to civil society are left to their bad behaviors.  Already people who support the Arizona legislation are withholding financial support for congregations whose leaders oppose it.

There are 35,000 United Methodists in Arizona along with many other Christians of other persuasions. Let us pray for their faithfulness in the midst of conflicted choices. 
The Lord is our refuge and strength.