Ober, My Cuban Friend

Many of us have felt distressed at the way immigration has been carried out. Some have shared their distain freely on social media and at rallies, and I’m so thankful we have the freedom to do this. But while I have observed this willingness to share empathy for immigrants online, I have wondered how many of us would actually help them, given the opportunity. It’s appropriate to put our boots on.

Well, here's our chance.

My Cuban friend Ober, a member of my local church, has lived in the U.S. for 27 years. He's a Spirit-filled Christian who sacrifices for God when he's not working to support his young family. I have done business with him and found him a second-mile kind of guy. He was a true asset—to me personally, to the church, and to our country.

I say "was" because as of April 8, Ober was deported. My understanding of the story is this: Years ago, Ober got caught giving money to a boatman to bring a relative here. He served three years, getting out in 2014. Normally he'd be deported afterward, but Cuba was not taking people back, so the deportation was stayed until this administration. He hired a lawyer, but to no avail.

This case is particularly heart-wrenching because his school-age daughter has special needs and will not likely find the necessary medical resources abroad. I wrote a letter of character reference, pleading for his young family, as I'm sure others did. But these things did not ultimately change their minds.

The story continues. We can help Ober, not to stay in this country, but to avoid certain costs. He had bought a lease for a billboard to place messages about Jesus' soon coming. From his own resources, he paid to share the truth. If he doesn't keep paying the over $1000 a month bill, he could accrue penalties and even be sued. We can both help the gospel message and a struggling brother by donating to this campaign. I'm in for $1000, money I don't have right now, but whatev. How about you?

Help Ober Now