Catholic Public Domain Version
Deuteronomy 10:19
“Therefore, you also should love sojourners, for you also were new arrivals in the land of Egypt.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Deuteronomy 10:19.
Plain-language explanation
Deuteronomy 10:19 gives a clear reason to love “sojourners” (people living temporarily among you). God is saying: treat them with care because you know what it means to be an outsider—Israel once was “new” in Egypt, having come into a foreign land.
Catholic context
Many Catholics understand this verse as a call to charity toward migrants, refugees, and anyone who feels vulnerable or displaced. It also echoes a broader biblical theme: God’s people should reflect God’s own mercy, especially toward those without a secure place of belonging.
Historical background
The Israelites were a people with recent experience of hardship as outsiders in Egypt. After the Exodus, they lived as God’s covenant community in the Promised Land, so the Law taught them to protect the dignity of those who were not native—sojourning foreigners were not to be treated harshly or neglected.
Reflection
This verse turns memory into love: remembering past need should change how we treat others. It challenges the heart to move from fear or suspicion to welcome and compassion, trusting that God can work through every person who comes into our midst.
Practical takeaway
Look for a concrete way to welcome someone who feels like an outsider—offer friendly assistance, be inclusive, support local efforts that serve refugees/migrants, or simply speak and act with respect and patience toward those who are new to your community.
Prayer
Lord God, teach us to love those who feel displaced and alone. Help us remember our own need for Your mercy, and make our hearts generous and welcoming. Give us courage to build bridges of kindness, so that our community may reflect Your compassion. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.