“Cooking is love made visible” (Anonymous)
What a true sentiment, and with Valentine’s Day coming up, I know a lot of you are ferociously scrolling through recipe sites in search of an easy, yet elegant meal to serve your special someone.
If you are looking for a pasta recipe, I have a lovely baked cheese ravioli dish layered with cottage cheese and topped with a quick and fresh tomato sauce that will tempt the taste buds and fill both their belly and their heart. And with ingredients costing less than $25, you can even splurge for a nice bottle of wine or specialty dessert.
I may have come up with this recipe over 20 years ago, yet when I made it for my husband last night, the dish tasted just as delicious as ever, so I hope you give it a try.
While this recipe is a great date night meal, it is also perfect for empty nesters or singles who like leftovers.
I hope you give it a try, and if you do, let me know how it came out 😊
Baked Triple Cheese Ravioli
Ingredients:
8 oz package ravioli (fresh or frozen), cooked as per package instructions
2 Cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (I used slicing tomatoes, but you can use Roma or whatever is on sale and looks good)
1 Cup mushrooms, chopped
¼ Cup onion, diced (for a milder flavor try using leeks)
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ Cup small curd cottage cheese (I have also used ricotta, so use whichever you prefer)
2 TBS grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1 tsp each, fresh parsley and rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Drizzle 1 tsp olive oil in 10-inch skillet. Sauté the onions and mushrooms until tender. Add in garlic and spices and cook until fragrant. Add in tomatoes and sauté until soft and tomatoes give up their juices. Add salt and pepper to taste and let simmer on low for about 10 minutes.
While sauce simmers, cook ravioli as per package instructions and drain well.
Place ravioli in small, ungreased baking dish and cover with the cottage cheese.
Pour the sauce over the top and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.
Bake, uncovered in preheated 350* oven for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes and serve.
Notes:
- I like to serve this with a side salad and toasted bread
- The sauce gets better as it sits, so it can be made the day before and heated up when ready. You can also double or triple the sauce recipe and use it as a go-to pasta sauce for spaghetti.
- Feel free to add fresh herbs and salt and pepper to the cottage cheese for added flavor.
- Chilly day Chili
Ingredients:
3 TBS chili powder 2 C beef broth
1 TBS plus 1 tsp, Cumin 6 oz tomato paste
1 tsp paprika 30 oz crushed tomatoes
1 tsp Cocoa Powder 15 oz fire roasted tomatoes/drained
1 tsp onion powder 3 lbs ground beef, browned/drained
1 tsp garlic powder 1 large onion, chopped
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes 1 bell pepper, chopped
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper 1 medium jalapeno, diced
1/4 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder
2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tsp corn starch
Instructions:
-In heavy pot, sauté onion, bell pepper and jalapeno in 1 TBS oil until translucent and soft. Add in browned, drained beef and cook 1-2 minutes.
– Mix dry ingredients. Add to pot and stir until well combined. Simmer 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
– Add broth, paste, crushed and fire roasted tomatoes. Stir well and bring to gentle boil. Once at boil, lower heat and allow to simmer several hours, stirring often.
-If chili is too thick, add in liquid from the fire roasted tomatoes or more beef broth.
-If chili is too thin, make corn starch slurry using 2 TBS liquid (broth, tomato sauce or water) and 2 TBS corn starch. Mix into chili, raising heat to boil. Once at a boil, it will begin to thicken. Once thickened, lower heat.
-Serving ideas: sour cream, green onions, chives, cheese, fresh jalapenos, crackers, corn chips.
Play around with the spice level on this one- this recipe is a mild heat, bur feel free to make it as hot as you’d like. If you’re a “chili with beans” enjoyer, this recipe will work well with your favorite bean.
This freezes well, so make a double batch to have for those late nights when you need something filling and tasty.
If you like this recipe, or any of the others I’ve posted, or if you enjoy my content, please consider donating a little to my Venmo to help keep the recipes coming 🙂
Venmo: @LittleMsTwitch
- Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients:
1 boneless, skinless breast, sliced in half, lengthwise
2 Pks Chicken Ramen noodles
3 c cabbage, chopped
1 C carrots, sliced thin and blanched
1 C broccoli florets, sliced thin and blanched
8 oz can sliced water chestnuts, drained
1/2 onion, sliced thin
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
1 Bunch green onion, sliced on diagonal
Sauce:
1/2 C soy sauce
4 TBS brown sugar
1 TBS water
1 TBS cornstarch
2 TBS oyster sauce
Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
Tools:
2 large skillets, (12” or larger) OR 1 large skillet and 1 two burner griddle
Saucepan for boiling noodles
Instructions:
Open Ramen packets and set aside 1 seasoning packet for future use. Cook noodles for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Use ½ of remaining seasoning packet to season chicken and cook until no longer pink. Set aside to cool. Once cooled, slice thinly.
Oil both skillets lightly and heat to medium high (5-6)
In one skillet, sauté cabbage
In other skillet, sauté carrots, broccoli and water chestnuts for 1-2 minutes, until soft. Add garlic, ginger and onions, simmering until fragrant. Add the remaining half of seasoning packet.
Add sauteed cabbage and mix well.
Mix sauce ingredients and add to main skillet and let simmer until slightly thickened.
Add in cooked noodles and mix well.
Serve with sliced chicken on top and enjoy!
*Add some chili oil on top for added spice and flavor*
*Feel free to play around with different veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers or whatever leftovers you have in the fridge. Pork and beef would also work well.*
*If 3 C is too much cabbage, cut recipe to 1 ½ C, or use all 3 C and only add half to main dish, allowing the remainder for everyone to add more to their own serving if desired *
- 7 Days to Die-no base build quick view
Many people are moving away from traditional base builds in 7 Days, so here is a quick view of our simple base. We have 2 rows of chests-one row for food, medical, buffs and farming, and one row for resources and crafting. We have 3 dew collectors and a ditch of water, which supplies infinite water for our 2 person server. Ditch water at your base is OP if you use the water purifier mod. We also have a small, 50 plot farm, which is more than enough to supply us with resources for cooking and medical supplies.
- A Biblical Response to Illegal Immigration
Yesterday I commented on @X that Trump and Vance should have walked out on the prayer service when the bishop began berating that Trump should show mercy to illegal immigrants. I wrote:
“I wish they would have. It would have been a powerful statement in support of real Biblical principles.”
Here is a response I got to that:
“Real biblical principles accept foreigners with open arms.” They also posted the following verse from Deuteronomy 10:17-22, New International Version:
“For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. 18 He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. 19 And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.”
Instead of hastily replying, “incorrect- Biblical principles do not accept foreigners with open arms”, I decided to do my due diligence in research, and then respond academically, Biblically and respectfully. This is what I have learned, and therefore, my full response:
Since I usually read from the King James Version:
“For the Lord your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward: He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name. He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen. Thy fathers went down into Egypt with threescore and ten persons; and now the Lord thy God hath made thee as the stars of heaven for multitude.”
The person who commented with this verse would have us believe verses 17-19 tell us to give food and clothing to the “foreigner” residing amongst us, and further, to love them. Let’s break this down, beginning with the term “foreigner”.
The NIV uses the term “foreigner” and the KJV uses “Stranger”. Other versions also use “Sojourner” and “Alien”. The definitions are roughly the same for them all, and definitions are important, especially in discussions like this.
Foreigner,
- One who is from a foreign country or place.
- One who is from outside a particular group or community; an outsider.
- A person belonging to or owning allegiance to a foreign country; one not native in the country or jurisdiction under consideration, or not naturalized there; an alien; a stranger.
Stranger
One who is neither a friend nor an acquaintance.
A foreigner, newcomer, or outsider.
One who is unaccustomed to or unacquainted with something specified; a novice
Sojourner
- To reside temporarily.
- To dwell for a time; to dwell or live in a place as a temporary resident or as a stranger, not considering the place as a permanent habitation; to delay; to tarry.
Similar: sojourned - A temporary stay; a brief period of residence.
In fact…
The term sojourner in the Bible refers to a person who is just passing through. Synonyms in various translations are foreigner, exile, and alien. During the exodus from Egypt, the Israelites were sojourners in the wilderness (Psalm 105:12–13; 1 Chronicles 16:19). Even though they remained in the wilderness for forty years, it was not their home (Numbers 14:33–34). They were merely sojourners there, yearning for the Promised Land God would give them for a permanent home. (https://www.gotquestions.org/sojourner-in-the-Bible.html)
Whichever definition you prefer, this verse is referring to someone who does not belong to the Commonwealth of Israel, and for current day purposes/context, not a citizen.
Now let’s break down the verse.
My commenter says verses 17-19 are commanding us to give food, shelter and love, but the 3 verses are broken into 2 parts:
The perspective of verses 17-18 are from the Lord’s, “He (as in, God) will provide food, clothing and love.”
Verse 19 is the specific commandment to us. We are to love the foreigner (stranger, sojourner).
*Please remember, I am strictly using this as a Biblical talking point for illegal immigration, and not the overall case for, “love thy neighbor as thyself”. As a Christian, I adhere to the “love thy neighbor/love the sinner, hate the sin” philosophy, (as do most Christians) so please keep that in mind. Many people get caught up emotionally and have a hard time differentiating between the two. *
Overall, it is my understanding of this verse, that God is saying He will do the providing and loving and we are only required to do the loving. Whether or not we choose to also do the providing for these “foreigners, strangers, sojourners” is up to us individually.
Which brings me to the next question:
What does the Bible say about borders for countries/nations, and how does that conflict or resolve with the verse in Deuteronomy?
Glad you asked.
Here is what I found/researched, copy/pasted and with weblink (I will express my viewpoint at the end, this is just some good research I found that explained it well.):
Explanation/Commentary on what the Bible says concerning Immigration and borders, from:
https://www.gotquestions.org/illegal-immigration.html
The question at hand concerns illegal immigration—whether it is wrong to violate a nation’s borders and transgress its immigration laws.
Romans 13:1–7 makes it abundantly clear that God expects us to obey the laws of the government. The only exception to this is when a law of the government forces us to disobey a command of God (Acts 5:29). Illegal immigration is the breaking of a government’s law. There is nothing in Scripture that contradicts the idea of a sovereign nation having immigration laws. Therefore, it is rebellion against God to unlawfully enter another country. Illegal immigration is a sin.
Illegal immigration is definitely a controversial issue in the United States (and some other countries) today. Some argue that the immigration laws are unfair, unjust, and even discriminatory—thus giving individuals justification to immigrate illegally. However, Romans 13:1–7 does not give any permission to violate a law just because it is perceived as unjust. Again, the issue is not the fairness of a law. The only biblical reason to violate a government’s law is if that law violates God’s Word. When Paul wrote the book of Romans, he was under the authority of the Roman Empire, led by Emperor Nero. Under that reign, there were many laws that were unfair, unjust, and/or blatantly evil. Still, Paul instructed Christians to submit to the government.
Are the immigration laws of the United States unfair or unjust? Some think so, but that is not the issue. All developed countries in the world have immigration laws, some more strict than the USA’s, and some less strict, and all have to deal with illegal immigration. There is nothing in the Bible to prohibit a country from having completely open borders or to have completely closed borders. Romans 13:1–7 also gives the government the authority to punish lawbreakers. Whether the punishment is imprisonment, deportation, or even something more severe, it is within the rights of the government to determine.
Illegal immigration is a complex issue. The vast majority of illegal immigrants in the United States have come for the purpose of having a better life, providing for their families, and escaping poverty. These are good goals and motivations. However, it is not biblical to violate a law to achieve a “good.” Caring for the poor, orphans, and widows is something the Bible commands us to do (Galatians 2:10; James 1:27; 2:2–15). However, the biblical fact that we are to care for the unfortunate does not mean we should violate the law in doing so. Supporting, enabling, and/or encouraging illegal immigration is, therefore, a violation of God’s Word. Those seeking to emigrate to another country should always obey the immigration laws of that country. While this may cause delays and frustrations, it is better than acting illegally. A frustrating law is still a law.
What is the biblical solution to illegal immigration? Simple—don’t do it; obey the laws. If disobedience is not a biblical option, what can be done in regards to an unjust immigration law? It is completely within the rights of citizens to seek to change immigration laws. If it is your conviction that an immigration law is unjust, do everything that is legally within your power to get the law changed: pray, petition, vote, peacefully protest, etc. As Christians, we should be the first to seek to change any law that is unjust. At the same time, we are also to demonstrate our submission to God by obeying the government He has placed in authority over us.“Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God” (1 Peter 2:13–16).
Back to my perspective now…
Romans 13:1-7 is the basis for the above commentary:
KJV “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.”
NIV “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor”
According to Romans, the Lord tells us to always obey the law, with the only exception being if that law goes against God’s. It also gives credence that nations can make their own laws concerning immigration, when adding in today’s discussion. As always, the Old and New Testaments can sometime seem to either conflict with one another or confuse us. I am by no means a Bible scholar, but I do enjoy dissecting the Word to attempt a greater understanding.
For me it seems the Bible tells us that it is ok and good for nations to have laws, including borders, and can thusly make laws to deal with/punish those who violate those laws. Personally, I do not think Romans conflicts with the Old Testament, because I feel like Deuteronomy was referring to the “foreigners, strangers, sojourners” as people who were just passing through the land, and not people with intent to settle there. My reasoning for this lies in Deuteronomy 10:19 where God reminded the Israelites that they too were also once strangers (in the land of Egypt), yearning for their permanent home in the Land God had promised. In other words, Israelites did not plan to permanently settle in Egypt- they were there temporarily.
- Deuteronomy says God will provide and love, and we are to love, those who are passing through.
- Romans tells us borders and border enforcements are ok. And for those whose intent is to settle, and not just pass through, the government can make laws that force them to leave. By that same token, a government can make laws allowing legal immigration to its nation and can punish the breaking of that law when people do not comply.
As Christians, we must live in this world without being conformed to it. This makes it difficult in discussions like this when people throw their emotions into the mix, and say we are “Not good Christians” when we say we should deport illegal immigrants. This is why I always like to dive into the Word first before blindly and hastily commenting back to someone who tries to “use the Bible” against me. In Biblical discussions I do my best to be respectful and informed, as doing anything other would only help paint Christians in a bad light. And we are instructed in Matthew 5:14-16 to be the light to the World:
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.
Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
- Terrifically Tasty Triple Cheese Ravioli
“Cooking is love made visible” (Anonymous)
What a true sentiment, and with Valentine’s Day coming up, I know a lot of you are ferociously scrolling through recipe sites in search of an easy, yet elegant meal to serve your special someone.
If you are looking for a pasta recipe, I have a lovely baked cheese ravioli dish layered with cottage cheese and topped with a quick and fresh tomato sauce that will tempt the taste buds and fill both their belly and their heart. And with ingredients costing less than $25, you can even splurge for a nice bottle of wine or specialty dessert.
I may have come up with this recipe over 20 years ago, yet when I made it for my husband last night, the dish tasted just as delicious as ever, so I hope you give it a try.
While this recipe is a great date night meal, it is also perfect for empty nesters or singles who like leftovers.
I hope you give it a try, and if you do, let me know how it came out 😊
Baked Triple Cheese Ravioli
Ingredients:
8 oz package ravioli (fresh or frozen), cooked as per package instructions
2 Cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (I used slicing tomatoes, but you can use Roma or whatever is on sale and looks good)
1 Cup mushrooms, chopped
¼ Cup onion, diced (for a milder flavor try using leeks)
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ Cup small curd cottage cheese (I have also used ricotta, so use whichever you prefer)
2 TBS grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1 tsp each, fresh parsley and rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Drizzle 1 tsp olive oil in 10-inch skillet. Sauté the onions and mushrooms until tender. Add in garlic and spices and cook until fragrant. Add in tomatoes and sauté until soft and tomatoes give up their juices. Add salt and pepper to taste and let simmer on low for about 10 minutes.
While sauce simmers, cook ravioli as per package instructions and drain well.
Place ravioli in small, ungreased baking dish and cover with the cottage cheese.
Pour the sauce over the top and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.
Bake, uncovered in preheated 350* oven for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes and serve.
Notes:
- I like to serve this with a side salad and toasted bread
- The sauce gets better as it sits, so it can be made the day before and heated up when ready. You can also double or triple the sauce recipe and use it as a go-to pasta sauce for spaghetti.
- Feel free to add fresh herbs and salt and pepper to the cottage cheese for added flavor.
- Chilly day Chili
Ingredients:
3 TBS chili powder 2 C beef broth
1 TBS plus 1 tsp, Cumin 6 oz tomato paste
1 tsp paprika 30 oz crushed tomatoes
1 tsp Cocoa Powder 15 oz fire roasted tomatoes/drained
1 tsp onion powder 3 lbs ground beef, browned/drained
1 tsp garlic powder 1 large onion, chopped
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes 1 bell pepper, chopped
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper 1 medium jalapeno, diced
1/4 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder
2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tsp corn starch
Instructions:
-In heavy pot, sauté onion, bell pepper and jalapeno in 1 TBS oil until translucent and soft. Add in browned, drained beef and cook 1-2 minutes.
– Mix dry ingredients. Add to pot and stir until well combined. Simmer 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
– Add broth, paste, crushed and fire roasted tomatoes. Stir well and bring to gentle boil. Once at boil, lower heat and allow to simmer several hours, stirring often.
-If chili is too thick, add in liquid from the fire roasted tomatoes or more beef broth.
-If chili is too thin, make corn starch slurry using 2 TBS liquid (broth, tomato sauce or water) and 2 TBS corn starch. Mix into chili, raising heat to boil. Once at a boil, it will begin to thicken. Once thickened, lower heat.
-Serving ideas: sour cream, green onions, chives, cheese, fresh jalapenos, crackers, corn chips.
Play around with the spice level on this one- this recipe is a mild heat, bur feel free to make it as hot as you’d like. If you’re a “chili with beans” enjoyer, this recipe will work well with your favorite bean.
This freezes well, so make a double batch to have for those late nights when you need something filling and tasty.
If you like this recipe, or any of the others I’ve posted, or if you enjoy my content, please consider donating a little to my Venmo to help keep the recipes coming 🙂
Venmo: @LittleMsTwitch
- Chicken Lo Mein
Ingredients:
1 boneless, skinless breast, sliced in half, lengthwise
2 Pks Chicken Ramen noodles
3 c cabbage, chopped
1 C carrots, sliced thin and blanched
1 C broccoli florets, sliced thin and blanched
8 oz can sliced water chestnuts, drained
1/2 onion, sliced thin
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
1 Bunch green onion, sliced on diagonal
Sauce:
1/2 C soy sauce
4 TBS brown sugar
1 TBS water
1 TBS cornstarch
2 TBS oyster sauce
Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
Tools:
2 large skillets, (12” or larger) OR 1 large skillet and 1 two burner griddle
Saucepan for boiling noodles
Instructions:
Open Ramen packets and set aside 1 seasoning packet for future use. Cook noodles for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Use ½ of remaining seasoning packet to season chicken and cook until no longer pink. Set aside to cool. Once cooled, slice thinly.
Oil both skillets lightly and heat to medium high (5-6)
In one skillet, sauté cabbage
In other skillet, sauté carrots, broccoli and water chestnuts for 1-2 minutes, until soft. Add garlic, ginger and onions, simmering until fragrant. Add the remaining half of seasoning packet.
Add sauteed cabbage and mix well.
Mix sauce ingredients and add to main skillet and let simmer until slightly thickened.
Add in cooked noodles and mix well.
Serve with sliced chicken on top and enjoy!
*Add some chili oil on top for added spice and flavor*
*Feel free to play around with different veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers or whatever leftovers you have in the fridge. Pork and beef would also work well.*
*If 3 C is too much cabbage, cut recipe to 1 ½ C, or use all 3 C and only add half to main dish, allowing the remainder for everyone to add more to their own serving if desired *
- 7 Days to Die-no base build quick view
Many people are moving away from traditional base builds in 7 Days, so here is a quick view of our simple base. We have 2 rows of chests-one row for food, medical, buffs and farming, and one row for resources and crafting. We have 3 dew collectors and a ditch of water, which supplies infinite water for our 2 person server. Ditch water at your base is OP if you use the water purifier mod. We also have a small, 50 plot farm, which is more than enough to supply us with resources for cooking and medical supplies.
- A Biblical Response to Illegal Immigration
Yesterday I commented on @X that Trump and Vance should have walked out on the prayer service when the bishop began berating that Trump should show mercy to illegal immigrants. I wrote:
“I wish they would have. It would have been a powerful statement in support of real Biblical principles.”
Here is a response I got to that:
“Real biblical principles accept foreigners with open arms.” They also posted the following verse from Deuteronomy 10:17-22, New International Version:
“For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. 18 He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. 19 And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.”
Instead of hastily replying, “incorrect- Biblical principles do not accept foreigners with open arms”, I decided to do my due diligence in research, and then respond academically, Biblically and respectfully. This is what I have learned, and therefore, my full response:
Since I usually read from the King James Version:
“For the Lord your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward: He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name. He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen. Thy fathers went down into Egypt with threescore and ten persons; and now the Lord thy God hath made thee as the stars of heaven for multitude.”
The person who commented with this verse would have us believe verses 17-19 tell us to give food and clothing to the “foreigner” residing amongst us, and further, to love them. Let’s break this down, beginning with the term “foreigner”.
The NIV uses the term “foreigner” and the KJV uses “Stranger”. Other versions also use “Sojourner” and “Alien”. The definitions are roughly the same for them all, and definitions are important, especially in discussions like this.
Foreigner,
- One who is from a foreign country or place.
- One who is from outside a particular group or community; an outsider.
- A person belonging to or owning allegiance to a foreign country; one not native in the country or jurisdiction under consideration, or not naturalized there; an alien; a stranger.
Stranger
One who is neither a friend nor an acquaintance.
A foreigner, newcomer, or outsider.
One who is unaccustomed to or unacquainted with something specified; a novice
Sojourner
- To reside temporarily.
- To dwell for a time; to dwell or live in a place as a temporary resident or as a stranger, not considering the place as a permanent habitation; to delay; to tarry.
Similar: sojourned - A temporary stay; a brief period of residence.
In fact…
The term sojourner in the Bible refers to a person who is just passing through. Synonyms in various translations are foreigner, exile, and alien. During the exodus from Egypt, the Israelites were sojourners in the wilderness (Psalm 105:12–13; 1 Chronicles 16:19). Even though they remained in the wilderness for forty years, it was not their home (Numbers 14:33–34). They were merely sojourners there, yearning for the Promised Land God would give them for a permanent home. (https://www.gotquestions.org/sojourner-in-the-Bible.html)
Whichever definition you prefer, this verse is referring to someone who does not belong to the Commonwealth of Israel, and for current day purposes/context, not a citizen.
Now let’s break down the verse.
My commenter says verses 17-19 are commanding us to give food, shelter and love, but the 3 verses are broken into 2 parts:
The perspective of verses 17-18 are from the Lord’s, “He (as in, God) will provide food, clothing and love.”
Verse 19 is the specific commandment to us. We are to love the foreigner (stranger, sojourner).
*Please remember, I am strictly using this as a Biblical talking point for illegal immigration, and not the overall case for, “love thy neighbor as thyself”. As a Christian, I adhere to the “love thy neighbor/love the sinner, hate the sin” philosophy, (as do most Christians) so please keep that in mind. Many people get caught up emotionally and have a hard time differentiating between the two. *
Overall, it is my understanding of this verse, that God is saying He will do the providing and loving and we are only required to do the loving. Whether or not we choose to also do the providing for these “foreigners, strangers, sojourners” is up to us individually.
Which brings me to the next question:
What does the Bible say about borders for countries/nations, and how does that conflict or resolve with the verse in Deuteronomy?
Glad you asked.
Here is what I found/researched, copy/pasted and with weblink (I will express my viewpoint at the end, this is just some good research I found that explained it well.):
Explanation/Commentary on what the Bible says concerning Immigration and borders, from:
https://www.gotquestions.org/illegal-immigration.html
The question at hand concerns illegal immigration—whether it is wrong to violate a nation’s borders and transgress its immigration laws.
Romans 13:1–7 makes it abundantly clear that God expects us to obey the laws of the government. The only exception to this is when a law of the government forces us to disobey a command of God (Acts 5:29). Illegal immigration is the breaking of a government’s law. There is nothing in Scripture that contradicts the idea of a sovereign nation having immigration laws. Therefore, it is rebellion against God to unlawfully enter another country. Illegal immigration is a sin.
Illegal immigration is definitely a controversial issue in the United States (and some other countries) today. Some argue that the immigration laws are unfair, unjust, and even discriminatory—thus giving individuals justification to immigrate illegally. However, Romans 13:1–7 does not give any permission to violate a law just because it is perceived as unjust. Again, the issue is not the fairness of a law. The only biblical reason to violate a government’s law is if that law violates God’s Word. When Paul wrote the book of Romans, he was under the authority of the Roman Empire, led by Emperor Nero. Under that reign, there were many laws that were unfair, unjust, and/or blatantly evil. Still, Paul instructed Christians to submit to the government.
Are the immigration laws of the United States unfair or unjust? Some think so, but that is not the issue. All developed countries in the world have immigration laws, some more strict than the USA’s, and some less strict, and all have to deal with illegal immigration. There is nothing in the Bible to prohibit a country from having completely open borders or to have completely closed borders. Romans 13:1–7 also gives the government the authority to punish lawbreakers. Whether the punishment is imprisonment, deportation, or even something more severe, it is within the rights of the government to determine.
Illegal immigration is a complex issue. The vast majority of illegal immigrants in the United States have come for the purpose of having a better life, providing for their families, and escaping poverty. These are good goals and motivations. However, it is not biblical to violate a law to achieve a “good.” Caring for the poor, orphans, and widows is something the Bible commands us to do (Galatians 2:10; James 1:27; 2:2–15). However, the biblical fact that we are to care for the unfortunate does not mean we should violate the law in doing so. Supporting, enabling, and/or encouraging illegal immigration is, therefore, a violation of God’s Word. Those seeking to emigrate to another country should always obey the immigration laws of that country. While this may cause delays and frustrations, it is better than acting illegally. A frustrating law is still a law.
What is the biblical solution to illegal immigration? Simple—don’t do it; obey the laws. If disobedience is not a biblical option, what can be done in regards to an unjust immigration law? It is completely within the rights of citizens to seek to change immigration laws. If it is your conviction that an immigration law is unjust, do everything that is legally within your power to get the law changed: pray, petition, vote, peacefully protest, etc. As Christians, we should be the first to seek to change any law that is unjust. At the same time, we are also to demonstrate our submission to God by obeying the government He has placed in authority over us.“Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God” (1 Peter 2:13–16).
Back to my perspective now…
Romans 13:1-7 is the basis for the above commentary:
KJV “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.”
NIV “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor”
According to Romans, the Lord tells us to always obey the law, with the only exception being if that law goes against God’s. It also gives credence that nations can make their own laws concerning immigration, when adding in today’s discussion. As always, the Old and New Testaments can sometime seem to either conflict with one another or confuse us. I am by no means a Bible scholar, but I do enjoy dissecting the Word to attempt a greater understanding.
For me it seems the Bible tells us that it is ok and good for nations to have laws, including borders, and can thusly make laws to deal with/punish those who violate those laws. Personally, I do not think Romans conflicts with the Old Testament, because I feel like Deuteronomy was referring to the “foreigners, strangers, sojourners” as people who were just passing through the land, and not people with intent to settle there. My reasoning for this lies in Deuteronomy 10:19 where God reminded the Israelites that they too were also once strangers (in the land of Egypt), yearning for their permanent home in the Land God had promised. In other words, Israelites did not plan to permanently settle in Egypt- they were there temporarily.
- Deuteronomy says God will provide and love, and we are to love, those who are passing through.
- Romans tells us borders and border enforcements are ok. And for those whose intent is to settle, and not just pass through, the government can make laws that force them to leave. By that same token, a government can make laws allowing legal immigration to its nation and can punish the breaking of that law when people do not comply.
As Christians, we must live in this world without being conformed to it. This makes it difficult in discussions like this when people throw their emotions into the mix, and say we are “Not good Christians” when we say we should deport illegal immigrants. This is why I always like to dive into the Word first before blindly and hastily commenting back to someone who tries to “use the Bible” against me. In Biblical discussions I do my best to be respectful and informed, as doing anything other would only help paint Christians in a bad light. And we are instructed in Matthew 5:14-16 to be the light to the World:
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.
Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
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