Colossians 3:8-14 - The Bible often speaks of four especially vulnerable groups of people that God's people are to make sure don't lose out on the justice they are owed. In this message, we consider the first group: the sojourner (or the immigrant). In considering the repeated calls to make sure that sojourners are shown compassion, fairness, and spiritual brotherhood, we are reminded of the ways in which both we ourselves and our savior Jesus have become strangers in strange lands. A sermon by Cameron Heger. [Part 3 of our series "Images and Neighbors, Every One"]

Questions for reflection: 1) What are "sojourners" and why were they repeatedly listed among the most vulnerable groups worthy of extra concern? 2) How would you summarize the Old Testament's expectations for how the nation of Israel was to treat foreigners? 3) How does that same heart get expressed in the very different New Testament context? 4) Brainstorm together some ideas for doing justice for the sojourner across our 3 categories: serving, giving, and advocating. 5) What does Colossians 3:8-14 invite us to do with regard to our national or ethnic divisions? 6) In Matthew 25, Jesus identifies closely with the sojourner. How were His incarnation and even His crucifixion on our behalf related to this idea?