By Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Yebuah, Pastor of Sunrise Presbyterian Church
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Scripture Reading: Genesis 12:1–3; Hebrews 11:13–16; Matthew 2:13–15
“All these died in faith without having received the promises, but from a distance they saw and greeted them. They confessed that they were strangers and foreigners on the earth.” — Hebrews 11:13 (NRSV)
To be an immigrant is often to carry a heavy story—of loss, longing, resilience, and hope. Many leave their homelands not because they want to, but because they must. Some are fleeing war, others poverty. Some are searching for safety, others for a future.
But what if the journey itself holds divine meaning? What if displacement is not only a disruption, but also a doorway through which God reveals purpose?
Abraham did not choose to leave his land. God called him: “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you” (Genesis 12:1). Abraham’s journey began with uncertainty, but it unfolded into a covenant that would bless the world.
Joseph, betrayed by his brothers, landed in Egypt. Not by choice—but by God’s design, he became the vessel of survival during famine.
The Israelites wandered, the prophets were exiled, and even Jesus—God-with-us—became a refugee child in Egypt. Over and over again, Scripture reminds us: God moves with migrants. God speaks through their journeys. God weaves salvation through their displacement.
And so, we proclaim:
We are immigrants not by choice, but by God’s design.
We are pilgrims in this world, seeking a better country, a heavenly homeland (Hebrews 11:16).
We walk not only toward a place, but with a purpose. Our steps are not wasted. Our tears are not unnoticed.
Whether you crossed oceans or borders—or find yourself spiritually or emotionally wandering—you belong to the God who walks with immigrants. You are not misplaced. You are planted, even in foreign soil. And the God who called Abraham, who protected Hagar, who empowered Ruth, and who traveled with Mary and Joseph—is the same God who goes with you.
Reflection Questions:
Prayer
God of all peoples and places, you have always been the God who travels—who meets us on dusty roads, who dwells with the displaced, who turns journeys into sacred stories. We come as immigrants—some by force, others by calling—and we place our feet, our fears, and our faith into your hands. Guide us to see your purpose even in our wandering. Strengthen our hearts when the path is lonely. And help us to remember: we are not where we began, but we are never beyond the reach of your design. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
