The United States, renowned as a land of immigration, attracts many thousands, even millions, seeking a fresh start in this land of opportunity and freedom, despite the diminishing of those prospects over time. Yet, by any standard, it remains the richest nation globally, with a broad, high living standard due to a vast middle class and poor who are not truly destitute, possessing good living conditions and modern amenities. This wealth continues to draw foreigners, shaping immigration into four historical periods: the Colonial period with immigrants mainly from the British Isles; the 19th century with arrivals from Northern Europe like Germany and Scandinavia; the early 20th century with newcomers from Southern and Eastern Europe such as Greeks and Italians; and the Modern period with primary origins in Asia and Latin America, including Mexico and Central and South America. In recent times, legal immigration averages about 800,000 per year, mostly post-World War II, alongside an unknown number of undocumented aliens crossing borders. Surprisingly, only about 40 percent of these foreigners seek and attain American citizenship, challenging the notion that they would eagerly embrace this nation's benefits. This shift marks a change from America as a melting pot to a salad bowl, where many immigrants retain their traditions, language, loyalties, and lifestyles, merely changing addresses without deeper assimilation. A generation ago, most foreigners desired full integration, adopting American ways until they were often seen as more American than natural-born citizens. Today, however, this eagerness to assimilate seems largely diminished. When foreigners arrive, they know little of America beyond hearsay, yet are attracted to its promise. To become full-fledged Americans, they must learn English, study founding documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, understand the nation's history, absorb its values, and pass citizenship tests and interviews to prove their commitment. Even as citizens, they often remain marked as immigrants, unable to shed foreign accents or cultural tastes tied to their native lands. First-generation immigrants tend to live as if still in their old countries, maintaining familiar foods, traditions, sports, music, holidays, and religions, finding corresponding communities in America. Yet, some foreigners transform quickly into thorough-going Americans in unseen ways. Many take voting seriously, valuing a voice denied in their homelands, as seen with Cuban-Americans passionate about politics. Others embrace Independence Day with fervor, dress in patriotic colors, join or encourage their children to join the armed forces, and dive into the free enterprise system, often becoming successful entrepreneurs. They strive to buy large American homes or cars, recognizing and seizing the opportunities this land offers, driven by an understanding of the value of hard work and economic potential.

In the spiritual realm, the concept of being foreigners carries profound significance. The apostle Paul uses the term 'foreigners' to describe those who find themselves in a place that is not their own country, living without the citizenship of that land. A foreigner, or sojourner, is someone who dwells near a community but does not belong to it, lacking the rights of permanent residence and living on a passport. This imagery illustrates a clear distinction between those who are citizens of heaven and those who are not. Paul emphasizes that Christians are no longer strangers and foreigners, indicating a transformative change. Once, they were outside the spiritual family and kingdom, but now they are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God. However, some may reside among the faithful for years, appearing to be part of the community, yet remain foreigners at heart, not truly belonging. They may mimic the actions of citizens—going to work, returning home, following routines—but their lack of true citizenship becomes evident in times of crisis or testing. The distinction between a Christian and a non-Christian is absolute; one either belongs to the kingdom or does not. A foreigner might look like a citizen, engaging in similar activities, but the fundamental difference lies in their spiritual status. This difference often surfaces during trials, when laws or circumstances challenge one's faith, revealing whether one holds a spiritual birth certificate or merely a passport. Paul's illustration warns that living as a foreigner in the spiritual sense means not fully understanding the language, customs, or intimate concerns of God's people. A foreigner may not grasp the deeper spiritual discussions or feel at ease among the faithful, remaining an outsider despite outward appearances. In the ultimate test, during moments of divine judgment, it becomes clear whether one is a citizen of heaven or a foreigner, as only true belonging offers the assurance and strength needed in such times. Thus, it is vital to know whether one is a foreigner or a citizen of heaven. The assurance of belonging comes not from superficial behavior but from a deep, internal transformation, confirmed by the Spirit of God. Those who are no longer foreigners must live in accordance with their citizenship, honoring the laws and customs of the kingdom, and finding their true home among God's people.

You are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints in the Kingdom of God. This profound change means that you are now separated from the world, distinct and set apart as part of a great state or kingdom. As citizens of this heavenly Kingdom, you are bound together by a common allegiance to your King, Jesus Christ, and to His way of life. This separation is fundamental, marking you as different from those outside the Kingdom. Being no longer foreigners, you are strangers and pilgrims in this earthly world. You do not belong to it, for your true citizenship is in heaven. This world may not understand you, and some may even be antagonistic or persecute you, but your identity lies in the heavenly realm. As strangers in this world, you represent your King and His Kingdom wherever you go. Your conduct must reflect the holiness of this Kingdom, serving as a true witness to God's way of life, for the world judges your King by what they see in you. As citizens who are no longer foreigners, you are called to defend the Kingdom of God, its laws, and everything for which it stands. You must be ready to stand firm in the face of spiritual and worldly attacks, diligently studying and living by the inspired written Word of God. Your responsibility is to ensure that your actions honor the Kingdom, showing your allegiance and contributing to its strength and glory.