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God gave this directive to Israel while they were on their way to the Promise Land: “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God” (Lev. 19:33,34). Israelites are not to mistreat or do wrong to foreigners residing with them but are to love and treat them as they would their own people. God loves foreigners as well as the Israelites.

Today, in Singapore, generally we do not treat foreigners well. We should treat them with respect, kindness and hospitality. We should not look down on them or use them as if they are work machines without feelings or emotions. We dishonour God when we treat foreigners badly.

In 2012, there were about 1.3 million foreigners from 15 countries working or studying in Singapore. We have the tremendous opportunity at our doorsteps to show love and to share Jesus with them. “Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day . Declare his glory among the nations, his marvellous deeds among all peoples ” (1 Chron. 16:23-25). We would be amiss if we do not “proclaim His salvation … among all peoples” right here in Singapore.

Here are some ways we can reach out to foreigners in Singapore for Jesus:

1. Some of us have domestic helpers in our homes. We can show them what it is to be Christians. We share God’s love by our lives and the way we love and relate to each other in the family.
2. Some churches in Singapore have special foreign workers outreach ministries to domestic helpers, construction workers, nurses and others. They transport foreign workers from their work sites /dormitories to Church meetings and some have come to believe in Jesus. BKC has Bible study classes for domestic helpers and these have encouraged some of them to know Jesus.
3. Foreign students in our institutions often experience cultural and social challenges to get settled in. We can provide help and guidance to them especially in the initial period of their stay. We can host them in our homes or bring them around Singapore – a good way to share Jesus with them. The challenge to share Jesus to foreigners is not a lack of opportunity or access to them. We need to take time and effort to reach out to them. What is our response – individually and as a Church?