The God Who Sees

Overall, this is a great resource for thinking about welcoming immigrants through a Christian faith perspective. I really appreciated reading some familiar Bible stories through a lens that explored the biblical character's immigration story. The writing is approachable and easy to read. The only thing that I didn't love was the format of the book, which alternates chapters between a story about a biblical character and a story from the author's life in connection to a church sacrament. Both types of chapters were useful and interesting, but the bouncing back and forth made the book feel disjointed to me. I think I would have preferred a more integrated approach to the concepts.

The God Who Sees by Karen Gonzalez is a memoir that explores the author's journey as an immigrant, a Christian, and a woman. Gonzalez shares her personal stories of leaving Guatemala, finding a new home in the US, and discovering her faith in God. She also reflects on the biblical narratives of immigrants and refugees, such as Hagar, Ruth, Joseph, and Jesus. She challenges the reader to see these stories from a different perspective and to recognize the God who sees and loves the marginalized and oppressed.

Gonzalez does not shy away from sharing her struggles, doubts, and questions. She also does not offer easy answers or solutions but invites the reader to join her in seeking God's presence and justice in a broken world. The book is not only a personal testimony, but also a theological exploration of what it means to be an immigrant and a follower of Christ. Gonzalez draws from various sources, such as history, sociology, culture, and Scripture, to illuminate the realities and experiences of immigrants and refugees.

The God Who Sees is a powerful and inspiring book that will challenge and encourage anyone who reads it. It is especially relevant for those who want to learn more about immigration issues, or who want to deepen their understanding of God's heart for the vulnerable and the displaced. The book will make you see yourself, your neighbor, and your God in a new light.