Two Immigrants in the Bible
Dr. Wonsuk Ma, Executive Director, ORU Center for Spirit-Empowered Research
Praise the Lord! My wife and I were truly blessed to witness the children here this morning. I believe you always tell them, “You came to America for you.” So, this morning, I want to share about two immigrants in the Bible: Mordecai and Esther. Let’s turn to Esther 2:5,6, and 7. In this scripture, we encounter Mordecai, a first-generation immigrant much like many of you. Mordecai’s journey to Babylon was not a choice; he witnessed the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonian King. Many Jewish leaders, including Mordecai, were taken to Babylon as prisoners. It wasn’t a simple flight to the States; they were captives and prisoners, experiencing the loss of their city, their king, and their temple. Mordecai arrived in Babylon after days of walking, becoming a foreigner in this new land. He brought Esther, his orphaned niece, with him, her parents having perished. Mordecai, much like some of your stories, took on the responsibility of caring for her.
Let’s delve into how Mordecai lived in this foreign land. The scripture tells us that he frequented the citadel where the palace was located daily. Without a government title, Mordecai observed the comings and goings of the King and high officers. We don’t know how well Mordecai spoke Persian, but he made a conscious effort to stay informed about the country he now called home. In a way, it parallels your daily struggles, working tirelessly from morning till night, and even in the workplace, facing difficulties. Yet, you persevere because you know you are building a life in this country with your family. Mordecai’s commitment to understanding the happenings in Babylon allowed him to help his people.
Next, let’s focus on Esther, the second-generation immigrant. Just as many of you work hard for your children’s better future, Mordecai ensured that Esther retained her Jewish culture and, more importantly, her faith in God. It may be disheartening when your children no longer speak your native language, and that’s why constant communication is crucial. Even though Esther grew up in Persia, Mordecai emphasized the importance of maintaining her faith while integrating into Persian society. Similarly, your children, functioning in American society, will become professionals —teachers, doctors, nurses, lawyers, politicians, and ministers. It’s essential to recognize that they won’t return to Myanmar; God has sent them and your family to this country with a mission. The church becomes a vital place to nurture their faith.
Lastly, Esther represents the new generation of immigrants- your children. She may not remember the homeland, having grown up in Persia, attending school with Persians, speaking the Persian language, and adopting Persian behaviors. Mordecai even advised her not to reveal her Jewish identity to the King. This may echo your concerns about your children becoming more American than you’d like. However, you don’t want your children to be so entrenched in your native ways that they struggle to navigate American life. Your actions speak louder than words; if your life doesn’t reflect your commitment to their better future, they won’t believe it.
Hence, your faith becomes a crucial influence on your children.
In conclusion, three aspects are critical: faith in God, embracing American life, and ensuring they remain connected to their Zomi heritage. Your children will only thrive when Jesus is at the center of their immigrant life. While American life presents challenges, you believe God has sent you here. Help your children become the best Americans while retaining their Zomi identity. As Zomi Christians, they can bring revival to churches in this country. Share with them the richness of your faith, how you worked tirelessly to attend big revival meetings, carrying rice and enjoying fellowship. Remind them that even in poverty, the Lord blessed you spiritually, allowing you to live victoriously. Let them know that the same God who brought you to this country will guide them to be the best in their faith, as Americans, and as Zomi people.
Amen!