It has been a rough news cycle recently when considering the Muslim world. But way too often we allow this kind of news to color our image of a large swath of humanity that number close to 1.6 billion, or 23% of the world’s population. We extrapolate, generalize, draw faulty conclusions, over imagine and hype up our fear. It doesn’t help that there are people, and “news” agencies that prey on our innate, human fears and seek to stir things up, or make money with headline grabbing stories. After all, who wants to read about peacemakers, or the majority of peace loving Muslims [the type I regularly encounter], or constant efforts by Muslims in our midst to demonstrate that violence is not the Muslim way. “Wait, did you say what I thought you said Andy?” Are you naive? Are you reading the news?
Well YES to reading the news. And I have many stories that keep pointing to what I’m trying to say. But more importantly I want to challenge anyone reading this blog on an important value that should help us in our journey today, in this world where ugly things DO happen. And, if you’re reading this blog and describe yourself as a follower of Christ, you need to listen to this challenge even more. Andy Braner, who blogs on this stuff, supports my idea. WE CANNOT, demonize a people we don’t know. We can’t allow our opinions of others to be shaped only by taking stories from the news or our inbox, sitting in the comfort of our homes and churches, in our little bubble! We are called to engage and build bridges. Even if someone, or some group is our enemy, what does Jesus call us to do? Matthew 5: 43-48 puts it clearly:
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
