Adversity: The Immigrant’s Journey to Touch the Hem of America’s Garment
In the heart of the southern border, where the desert winds whisper tales of resilience and hardship, there exists a pilgrimage unlike any other — a journey fueled by the relentless pursuit of hope and healing. Like the woman with the issue of blood who sought to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment, the immigrants who traverse these unforgiving landscapes yearn to grasp the frayed edges of America’s promise, in search of solace and redemption.
With each step, they navigate a labyrinth of adversity — a maze of barbed wire and bureaucratic hurdles, where the odds are stacked against them. Yet, like Moses leading his people through the wilderness to the Promised Land, they press onward, guided by a faith that transcends borders and boundaries.
Moses, a leader whose courage and conviction inspired a nation to defy oppression and embark on a journey towards freedom. His story resonates with the immigrants at the border, who too seek liberation from the shackles of injustice and inequality. Just as Moses led his people through the parted waters of the Red Sea, they forge ahead, buoyed by the hope of a better future.
Their stories echo across the dusty plains, tales of courage and sacrifice, of dreams deferred and destinies forged anew. They are the modern-day pilgrims, carrying with them the weight of generations past and the hopes of generations yet to come. Their journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a testament to the enduring power of faith and fortitude.
As they reach out to touch the hem of America’s garment, they do so not only in search of refuge but also in defiance of the forces that seek to diminish their humanity. They are the embodiment of perseverance, the living embodiment of a biblical parable brought to life in the crucible of adversity.
In their quest to touch the hem of America’s garment, they remind us of our shared humanity, of the interconnectedness of our stories and struggles. They challenge us to confront the injustices that perpetuate their suffering and to extend a hand of compassion and solidarity.
Their journey also mirrors that of Harriet Tubman, the fearless abolitionist who led countless slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad. Like Tubman, they navigate treacherous terrain, evading capture and risking everything for the promise of liberty. Theirs is a legacy of resistance and resilience, a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who refuse to be bound by chains.
Perceptions may cast them as criminals or burdens, but they are far from such labels. They are not rapists; they may have endured the trauma of sexual violence. They are not murderers; they may have witnessed the atrocities of killings, violence, and death. They are not ignorant; they possess a profound understanding of the world and the resilience to transcend language barriers. They are champions of change, architects of their own destiny, and they navigate adversity with unwavering determination.
in the face of adversity, there are those who would argue that the influx of immigrants is akin to poisoning the blood of America — a notion steeped in fear and division. Yet, as we reflect on the journey of sacrament and the woman with the issue of blood, a deeper truth emerges.
Just as we commemorate the blood of Jesus in the sacrament of communion, we are reminded of its profound significance in our shared humanity. It is not about poisoning the blood, but rather celebrating the blood — the blood that binds us together as one family, irrespective of race, nationality, or creed.
In the annual sacrament of Easter and every first Sunday communion, we partake in a ritual that transcends time and space — a ritual that speaks to the fundamental interconnectedness of all beings. It is a solemn reminder of the sacrifice made for the redemption of humanity, a testament to the power of love to overcome even the greatest of adversities.
So, as we confront the challenges of our time, let us not succumb to the rhetoric of division and fear. Instead, let us embrace the spirit of unity and compassion, recognizing that our diversity is our strength and that our common humanity is the bond that unites us all.
As we journey forward, may we be guided by the example of Jesus Christ, who welcomed the outcast and embraced the stranger, who saw beyond the labels and stereotypes to the inherent dignity of every individual. And may we, too, extend a hand of welcome to those who come to touch the hem of America’s garment, recognizing in them the potential for renewal and transformation.
As we bear witness to their journey, may we be moved to action, to stand as allies in the fight for justice and dignity for all. For in their struggle, we find echoes of our own, and in their triumph, we find hope for a brighter tomorrow — a tomorrow where the promise of America is not just a distant dream but a reality embraced by all who seek refuge on her shores.
In conclusion, as we reflect on the journeys of those who come to touch the hem of America’s garment, we are compelled to ponder a profound question: If America aspires to emulate the compassion and empathy of Jesus Christ, what course of action would He advocate?
Surely, He would not turn a blind eye to the suffering of His fellow human beings, nor would He erect barriers to keep them at bay. Instead, He would extend His hand in welcome, His heart overflowing with love and understanding. He would champion the cause of the marginalized and oppressed, speaking out against injustice and standing in solidarity with those who seek refuge and redemption.
In the face of adversity, He would offer solace and support, guiding us towards a path of healing and reconciliation. He would remind us that we are all children of a loving Creator, bound together by the common thread of our humanity.
So let us heed the call to compassion, let us embrace the stranger with open arms, and let us strive to build a nation that reflects the timeless values of love, justice, and equality. For in doing so, we honor not only the legacy of those who have come before us but also the divine spark that resides within each and every one of us.
Effenus Henderson
