“Get into the habit of practicing hospitality." ~ Romans 12:13
His family's is a common story
told by millions of Americans. Colin
Powell was born the only son of Jamaican immigrants who married in New York
City, became citizens and raised a family.
By their hard work and their love for this country, they enriched our
nation while instilling future generations with that same spirit of service and
optimism.
Colin Powell, the trailblazing soldier-diplomat, rose from
humble beginnings to become a 4-star General and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs
during the 1991 Gulf War. He worked for
6 presidents including serving as Secretary of State from 2001 to 2005.
We’re a nation that’s been touched by people from every
country. We, in turn, touch them
back. We’re influenced not just by our
immigrants but by the foreigners who return home to tell of their impressions
and experiences.
They stopped for dinner at Outback Steakhouse. When the bill came, they realized they’d
miscalculated what currency they had and couldn’t pay the full bill.
They were not even close.
Imagine a dozen scared, Portuguese speaking kids in a chain restaurant
worrying about all the horrors that could befall foreigners who can’t pay.
Fearing the worst, they finally
told the waitress and asked what they could do.
She looked at them, gave a slight nod and walked away. They didn’t know what to expect.
She returned a few minutes later
with her manager and full pot of coffee.
“I am immigrant myself,” he smiled proudly.
Pouring each of them a fresh cup of coffee he added, “Don’
worry about check. I hope you enjoy meal
on me tonight. I glad you visit this
country I love. Have good time and learn
all about us."
They students never expected such kindness. It was a powerful experience for all of
them. They’d met members of congress, other
dignitaries and even the President. But
a restaurant manager in Chicago made the strongest impression on them and gave
them their most lasting memory of Americans.
That's the America I believe in. That's the America the world wants to believe
in.
Undoubtedly, that’s a story those Brazilian kids told hundreds
of times. Powell added, "We're
still a trusted nation; one that’s still the beacon of light to the darkest
corner of the world. We're a people of
hopes and dreams ... you must never forget that."
So long as we have principled leaders of humility and grace …
and generous restaurateurs in America, we’re going to be just fine.
God of all nations, we pray
that those who seek to make a home in this country may find us welcoming and willing
to help them find a path toward citizenship.
Give us courage to open our doors to our neighbors and grace to build a
society of justice. Amen
