Faith, Law, and Citizenship: A Theological and Legal Reflection on Immigration Enforcement in the United States

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Faith, Law, and Citizenship: A Theological and Legal Reflection on Immigration Enforcement in the United States
Author: Danny Bawibikthawng
(Immigrant Pastor from Myanmar and U.S. Citizen)


Abstract


This paper offers a theological and legal reflection on a recent public statement by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerning the revocation of green cards and visas for immigrants who violate U.S. laws. As a pastor and former refugee from Myanmar who legally entered the United States and later became a citizen, I write with deep empathy for immigrant communities and a strong commitment to lawful citizenship. This reflection affirms the importance of national security while also upholding the biblical and constitutional values of mercy, justice, and human dignity.


Introduction


On May 09 2025, USCIS publicly affirmed its ongoing efforts to enforce immigration laws and protect national security. In a Facebook post, the agency declared:

            

“USCIS works alongside our Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Department of State partners each day to keep America, and Americans, safe. From designating foreign terrorist organizations to imposing sanctions, we’re taking action to protect and secure our nation for your families, friends, and future.”


Every sovereign nation, including the United States, has the right and responsibility to establish laws that protect its people. This responsibility is not only legitimate but also necessary for the good of society and the betterment of the world. As immigrants, we must acknowledge this basic principle without reacting in blind criticism. Policies that emphasize law enforcement may be responding to real concerns, including past harms or abuses of the immigration system—even by legal immigrants.


Yet these announcements also raise important theological and ethical questions. How can justice be balanced with compassion? What does Christian faith require of us in a foreign land? How should we respond when the boundaries between enforcement and exclusion are not clearly drawn?


Legal Framework: Understanding Revocation of Status

Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), the U.S. government may revoke visas or green cards for several reasons, including:

  • Conviction of crimes involving moral turpitude or aggravated felonies
  • Engagement in terrorist activities or posing national security threats
  • Immigration fraud or misrepresentation
  • Violation of visa conditions or overstaying legal limits

These laws have existed for many years. However, renewed emphasis on enforcement can have disproportionate effects on immigrant populations, particularly those still seeking permanent status or citizenship. Even minor legal offenses, if not handled carefully, can result in serious consequences. This is why immigrants must stay informed, remain cautious, and live within the bounds of the law.


As Aristotle wisely stated, “The rule of law is better than the rule of any individual.” Law, when applied justly, serves as a protective shield. It should never become a tool used to unfairly target entire communities. Legal clarity and access to due process are essential components of justice.


Biblical Foundations for Obedience and Advocacy


1. Obeying Lawful Authority
Romans 13:1–2 instructs believers to “be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God.” Obeying the law is more than a civic duty; it is also a spiritual act of worship and public witness. We are called to live like Joseph in Egypt—faithful in a foreign land, demonstrating trustworthiness and rising through integrity to become a blessing to others.


Similarly, 1 Peter 2:12 calls us to live honorably “so that… they may see your good deeds and glorify God.” As legal immigrants, we should live not in fear, but in wisdom and with a sense of responsibility.


2. Extending Compassion and Advocacy
Though we are commanded to obey the law, we are also called to defend the dignity of the vulnerable. Exodus 22:21 reminds us, “Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” God’s heart beats for the outsider, the refugee, and the forgotten. Even Jesus was a refugee as a child, having fled to Egypt.


Our responsibility also includes the undocumented. The Christian mandate is clear: “Love your neighbor” includes every neighbor, regardless of legal status. As Martin Luther King Jr. warned, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”


3. Protecting All Peoples Equally
It is appropriate and just to support vulnerable groups such as the Jewish community, especially during times of threat. However, when such support becomes extreme or exclusive, it risks undermining the principle of equal protection. Acts 10:34 reminds us that “God shows no partiality.”


A government that favors one group over others, even unintentionally, risks losing its moral direction. The Founding Fathers envisioned a nation rooted in liberty and justice for all people—not just for a selected few. That founding vision should continue to guide immigration policy in our time.


Pastoral Encouragement and Prophetic Call

As pastors and people of faith, we carry the responsibility to lead by example. We must strive to be good citizens who are wise, humble, and vigilant. We must avoid behavior that gives rise to negative stereotypes or becomes the basis for harsh enforcement.


At the same time, we are called to speak the truth to power. Jeremiah 29:7 exhorts us to “seek the welfare of the city… and pray to the Lord on its behalf.” This includes praying for those who govern, but also speaking out for compassionate policies and fair enforcement.


Immigrant churches have a unique role to play as a prophetic voice. We are able to model civic responsibility while also challenging injustice and discrimination. As citizens of both heaven and earth, we must care for both realms with courage and conviction.


Final Word: A Call to Prayer and Hope

Dear fellow pastors, dear immigrant friends:

Let us remember the example of Jesus the refugee and Joseph the faithful servant in Egypt. We are not in this country by accident, but by divine providence. We are here to be a blessing. In order to do so, we must live with both wisdom and love.


Yes, we must obey the law. Yes, we must be good citizens. But above all, we must follow the command of Jesus to “love one another.” That includes legal residents, undocumented neighbors, and even those with whom we may disagree politically. Our love must be visible and rooted in action.


Let us also remember to pray for those in authority. As 1 Timothy 2:1–2 urges us:

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”


Pray for wisdom in Washington. Pray for compassion in the courts. Pray for courage in our churches. May our presence in this land reflect the light and salt of the Gospel—preserving what is good, revealing what is hidden, and pointing others toward the peace of Christ.


Bibliography


Department of Homeland Security. Immigration and Nationality Act. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Publishing Office, 2021.
Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016.
King, Martin Luther, Jr. Why We Can’t Wait. New York: Signet Classic, 2000.
Martin, David. Immigration and Citizenship: Process and Policy. 9th ed. St. Paul, MN: West Academic, 2017.
Rodriguez, Samuel. Be Light: Shining God’s Beauty, Truth, and Hope into a Darkened World. New York: WaterBrook, 2016.
Thielman, Frank. Theology of the New Testament: A Canonical and Synthetic Approach. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2005.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. “USCIS Works Alongside Our DHS and State Department Partners.” Facebook, May 2025. https://www.facebook.com/share/16GiiVuX8R/
Yamamoto, Eric K. Interracial Justice: Conflict and Reconciliation in Post-Civil Rights America. New York: NYU Press, 1999.

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