The 2010 American Community Survey results were released today. One section to which I wish to draw your attention contains the foreign-born statistics. Once again, we are reminded of the peoples on the move.
The following information was taken from the Highlights which you may find HERE.
- The foreign-born population was 40 million (12.9% of total U.S. population)
- Between 2009 and 2010, the foreign-born population increased by 1.4 million people
- 53% of all foreign-born residents were from Latin America
- The single-largest country of birth was Mexico representing 29% of all of the foreign-born population
- The foreign-born population from Asia represented 22% of the U. S. population
- The foreign-born population from Europe represented 12% of the U. S. population
- The foreign-born population from Africa represented 4% of the U. S. population
With those from Latin America representing a large portion of the foreign-born population, consider the following regarding their places of residence:
- 26% lived in California
- 14% lived in Texas
- 13% lived in Florida
- 10% lived in New York
As you reflect on these facts, consider the following:
“And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us.” (Acts 17:26-27, ESV).
While there are earthly push-pull factors affecting the movement of the peoples of the world, the reality is that there is a sovereign God behind such movements. And while such movements are often in response to the need for a better quality of life, there is a soteriological matter ultimately involved.
In light of this theological reality, what should be our response to the strangers next door who do not know Him? What should be our response to the strangers next door who do know him?
