Our executive director, Anton Flores-Maisonet, is currently traveling in Central America and Mexico, connecting with a family profoundly impacted by U.S. immigration policies of previous administrations. He is also meeting with researcher Dr. Austin Kocher to discern how Casa Alterna can most effectively live out its mission in the face of increasingly dehumanizing and punitive anti-immigrant policies. The shift toward such measures has been swift, with more expected to follow. Anton’s reflection is intended to provoke spiritual dissonance among those who identify as Christians yet support the unchristian actions of the Trump administration. Here are some reflections from Anton during his time south of the border:
I’ve listened to Donald Trump’s inauguration speech and understand why his words resonate with many. He speaks to fears and frustrations, then incites them while offering promises of strength and security. Yet, I can’t help but reflect on how his words contrast with the values and example of Jesus.
When Trump said, “We will immediately terminate every open border policy of the Biden administration,” it feels far from Jesus’ way of welcoming the stranger. Jesus didn’t build barriers—he crossed them. He taught us to love our neighbor, not to fear them, reminding us that, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
Trump’s declaration that “The reign of corrupt Washington is over, and we will end it to put America first” may sound enticing, but it contrasts sharply with Jesus’ humility. Jesus condemned leaders who exploited the vulnerable, but he never sought power for himself or any nation or empire. Instead, he urged us to serve one another and seek God’s borderless kingdom, built on justice, mercy, and peace—not dominance.
When Trump spoke of “total retribution” and “crushing” opponents, I thought of Jesus’ words: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). Jesus rejected revenge, calling us to forgive and to overcome evil with good.
I do not expect any President of the United States to behave like Jesus, but I do call on Christians to strive to imitate Christ. “Seek ye first the greatness of any empire or nation-state” wasn’t the song I was taught in Sunday School. Jesus shows us that the path to greatness comes through justice, compassion, and radical welcome—for all people.
written by Anton Flores-Maisonet
Casa Alterna 