Peter Ong

What would it look like if Christians throughout the city, from all different backgrounds as a household of faith, were known for their work of justice and mercy in the city?

The blessing of God is not found in exacting obedience to the law, but rather through faith in Christ. The gospel does, however, produce radical obedience as we, in faith, understand the blessing of Christ and experience a transformation of heart.

It is the discipline of self-forgetfulness and looking toward the gospel that we need to cultivate in our work of service.

When we see injustice, we are quick to vilify, to point out wrongs, and to make accusations. We are not quick to pause, reflect, and lament the truth that we live in a world where injustices are prevalent.

When my youngest son created a presentation on my life, aptly titled "The Biography of Peter Ong," for a school project, it caused me to consider what it would be like if we were to write a biography of God. How would we present God? Would it be the same way that He presents Himself?

Being an authentic neighbor is both a challenge to move physically closer in proximity to those who are different from us and a challenge to align our heart with the heart of God, who cares deeply for those who have been marginalized.

Understanding the comprehensiveness of God’s reign must lead us to a comprehensive understanding of discipleship, where spiritual formation is not limited to our prayers or Bible studies, but extends to serving the needs of others as we seek to actively engage in God’s redemptive plan.

Since Eden, none of us has ever really been home. But the King will return, and it is only in this Kingdom of diverse oneness that we will truly be home. And that should inform our posture toward the strangers and foreigners among us.

God’s very character is to welcome the unwelcomed—those who are seeking a home. As the Church, we are called to enter into and empathize with the immigrant’s struggle for home.