Hats off to Brigada Commenter, Brian, who wrote to “encourage us all to first focus on Jesus. How would he want the Church to respond to individual Muslims? In what ways would He want us to engage with Muslims, even those who seem radical? Ultimately we know that the solution is spiritual. Having lived in 3 different Muslim countries, this truth was impossible to avoid (and I could say the same about the shifts in America!). And as part of our focusing on Jesus, let’s ask ourselves, individually and corporately, “Change my heart, O God. See if there be any offensive way in me….”
Here are some other practical suggestions Brian gave:
* Learn more about Muslims. Befriend one (or better yet, a family) and spend time with them. Invite them into your home. Accept their invitations to their home (I can all but guarantee will win for best hospitality).
* Read a book to better understand Muslims and how to lovingly engage them. There are way to many “Christian leaders” out there instilling fear & hatred. “Muslims, Christians and Jesus: Gaining Understanding and Building Relationships” is a good place to start (http://amzn.to/1S4SWti).
* Pray – seriously pray – regularly for Muslims, for peace, and the coming of God’s kingdom. If I could pass a law, it would be “No complaining about Muslims or Islam without at least praying daily right now during Ramadan.” Try http://calledtopray.net/ (a neat story-based prayer guide) or the annual http://pray30days.org/.
* Addressing radical Islam – As others have written, in many Muslim countries, people are easily radicalized because of deplorable economic conditions (often fueled by corrupt and possibly oppressive governments). Consider how the Church can be a part of helping them. Research has shown that Muslims who are being radicalized could just as easily be turned toward Jesus (Saul -> Paul anyone?!).
* Learn about & support groups doing innovative work among Muslims.”
Thanks Brian!
Regarding the cause of radicalism, I would like to quote Don Heckman in his recent book, Muslims Call Him Isa, Some Call Him Savior-Pulling Back the Spiritual Veil of Reconciling Muslims and Christians: “As Raashida and Muhammad came closer to Christ, their families became more radicalized in Islam to maintain honor. Prayer is essential here. A Muslim man or woman in France, for example, often becomes more radicalized in Islam than they were in North Africa as a defense mechanism against the prevailing Western Culture.” (p. 44) Most Muslims are in a shame-honor culture while Western culture is guilt-consequence. Don has been serving the Lord with his wife, Evey, in France and North Africa for many years, primarily to Muslims.
Hey I do that and affirm the advice. It’s good!