Borders and immigration come up a lot these days. From heated national debates to local conversations at dinner tables in Gainesville and Nokesville, it is easy to feel unsure about how to respond. As followers of Jesus, we do not want to rush into opinions based only on what we hear on the news or social media. We want to ask better questions. What does Scripture say? How should we treat people from different places? When laws and compassion seem to clash, what matters most?

In a recent conversation, Chad Robichaux and Pastor Josh Baird shared some thoughts on this, bringing both biblical truth and real-world experience. We believe there is a good reason to look again at this topic, with our faith at the center and our hearts open to how God might be leading us to respond.

What Does the Bible Say About Nations and Borders?

The Bible has a lot to say about nations, and borders are not a new thing to God. In Genesis 11, we read about the Tower of Babel, where God scattered people by giving them different languages. This was not a punishment for being different. It was part of His plan. From the beginning, God created nations and cultures on purpose. The variety of people and languages was not something that went wrong; it was something God designed.

The Old Testament lays out clear expectations for how God’s people should treat foreigners. In many places, God commands His people to love the stranger and care for the traveler. Exodus 22:21 says, "Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt." This was not a light suggestion. It was a direct command rooted in the memory of what it felt like to be outsiders themselves.

Even when borders define where people live, God's bigger focus is often about how people treat one another within those boundaries. As we read through the Old Testament, we see that respect for borders does not cancel out the call to kindness and hospitality. It is not one or the other.

Jesus’ Example: Love and Justice Over Division

Jesus often spent time with those whom others ignored or avoided. He talked with Samaritans, healed Roman servants, and made time for people who did not share His religion, background, or social status. None of that made Him uneasy. His actions showed us that love should not stop at cultural or national lines.

One powerful story is the Good Samaritan. A man is left hurt on the road, and the people expected to help him walk right by. But then comes a Samaritan, someone from a group that did not get along with the Jews, and he does what no one else would. He stops. He helps. He goes out of his way for someone who probably would not have done the same for him. Jesus used that story to answer a big question: Who is my neighbor?

The answer is everyone.

Jesus did not say love only those who are easy to understand or those who follow the same rules. He raised the bar. He asked us to care for others based on their need, not their background.

Balancing National Security with Christian Compassion

We have heard people ask, “What about safety and laws?” That is a fair point. Following the law matters. The Bible tells us to respect governing authorities. That does not mean we have to become cold or unkind.

Chad Robichaux has worked in both military service and humanitarian outreach, and his insight helps remind us there is a way to hold both truth and compassion at the same time. Laws exist for order and protection. When we are thinking about immigration, we should not let policies speak louder than people’s needs. Pastor Josh reminds us that Scripture does not ignore tough topics; it just reminds us they must always be paired with love.

So the question becomes: Can we care about national safety and still offer open hands to those hurting or looking for hope? The answer is yes. We can care about curbing danger while refusing to lose our tenderness. It is not always easy, but simple faithfulness in both truth and kindness leads us in the right direction.

What This Looks Like in Local Communities

Even in smaller towns like ours, this conversation shows up in real ways. You may meet an immigrant family at the store. Your kids’ school might welcome students who speak different languages at home. Someone nearby might be waiting on paperwork to stay in the country legally.

One way we can reflect Christ is by serving others directly. At Love Church, serving opportunities are built into church life, from local outreaches to supporting families in need throughout Gainesville, VA. For some of us, that might mean helping with a local food outreach or simply offering a greeting and a prayer. For others, it might look like listening. Kindness does not have to be loud. It can look like helping someone understand a school form or showing them where the bus stop is.

When talking to others about borders and immigration issues, we suggest a few things:

1. Start from a place of humility.

2. Ask more questions than you answer.

3. Make Scripture your foundation, not headlines.

Not everyone will agree. That is okay. We can still be people known for our gentle answers, not just our arguments.

Living Out Faith Together

At Love Church in Gainesville, VA, we believe community forms the foundation for real growth and understanding. With Sunday services at 9AM and 11AM, and dedicated ministries for kids from birth through grade 5, each gathering is an opportunity to learn, listen, and love others well.

These rhythms help anchor us in the truth that each neighbor, no matter where they are from, is worthy of dignity and grace. Our shared worship and prayer encourage us to be people who step out in faith and kindness, both inside and outside the church walls.

Walking in Truth and Grace: A Call to Reflect

Issues like immigration can feel overwhelming, but they do not have to be. When we do not know what to do, we can always return to Scripture. The Bible has shown us that God's heart is for people, from every nation, tribe, and language. Even when the lines on a map shift, God's love remains steady.

Our job is not to fix every policy. It is to love well, speak truth with care, and never forget that people matter most. In communities like Gainesville, Virginia, this could mean getting involved, starting honest talks, or just treating newcomers as neighbors. No matter what side of the conversation we start on, we all move closer to Christ when we let love lead.

If you're seeking a genuine connection and deeper understanding of faith's role in today's world, we invite you to explore the vibrant community of our church in Gainesville, VA. At Love Church, we welcome everyone to join us as we engage in meaningful conversations and grow in faith together. Our services and gatherings are designed to inspire compassion, foster understanding, and celebrate God's love for all. Come be part of a community that cherishes every neighbor and every nation.