In the time that I have spent advocating for more compassionate immigration reform, one counter- argument I have heard members of the Church use repeatedly is that our shared religious beliefs require a commitment to obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law. As a student of both the law and the gospel, I see great wisdom in the 12th Article of Faith, but I have always been troubled by the implication that any ethical or moral failure — of an individual or society — is automatically excused or justified by strict adherence to the law. The argument is often used as a trump card of sorts to squelch thoughtful and nuanced…