Augustine argued that while we should love all people equally, our finite resources require prioritizing those closest to us - family, community, and nation. This concept, known as 'ordo amoris' (order of love), suggests helping those in our immediate circles first, then expanding outward as resources allow.

The principle originated with Augustine of Hippo (354-430), who explained that while universal love is ideal, practical limitations mean "you cannot do good to all people equally." He proposed giving priority to those "particularly close to you in terms of place, time, or any other circumstances."

This creates concentric circles of moral obligation:

• Self
• Family
• Community
• Nation
• World

Scripture supports this framework. Paul instructs Timothy that failing to provide for family makes one "worse than an unbeliever" (1 Tim. 5:8). He also advises doing good "especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).

Later theologians expanded on this concept:

• Thomas Aquinas incorporated it into Summa Theologica
• John Calvin emphasized stronger obligations to those more closely connected
• Contemporary scholars like Kevin DeYoung apply similar "moral proximity" principles

When applied to immigration policy, ordo amoris suggests nations should prioritize citizens' needs while balancing moral obligations to others. However, this theological principle alone doesn't dictate specific policies - it requires weighing multiple factors:

• Economic impact
• National security
• Humanitarian concerns
• Resource limitations

The concept's recent emergence in political discourse marks a potential shift toward more substantive policy debates grounded in ethical frameworks rather than sound bites. This could enable deeper discussions about balancing national interests with global humanitarian responsibilities.

While ordo amoris doesn't provide simple answers to complex immigration questions, it offers a thoughtful framework for considering how to allocate limited resources while maintaining broader moral obligations.

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