by Ricky Doc Sauceda
John 8:51-53 - Truly, truly, I say to you, if any one keeps my word, he will never see death.” The Jews said to him, “Now we know that you have a demon. Abraham died, as did the prophets; and you say, ‘If any one keeps my word, he will never taste death.’ Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do you claim to be?”
I spent the afternoon getting a few things done. I then had an extended dinner with my Muslim friends at their restaurant. It is my policy not to force my Christian beliefs or faith on anyone. Tonight they opened the floor by talking to me about Islam.
I allowed them a lot of time to discuss their beliefs with me. I heard them out on their understanding of the prophets and Mohammed. I let them fully explain their personal understanding of their faith.
Then I reviewed areas that they are lacking knowledge in regarding the prophets. I discussed with them how God is indeed Jesus Christ by the words of the prophets. I also asked if they knew of Jesus' mother...they named her and said yes.
I then explained that many Christians disagree about God being triune (a trinity) and not all agree about the Virgin Mary (as they named her). They eluded to miracles of a prophet which were similar to Jesus Christ's. Only...the miracles they mentioned were not accurate.
Moses never walked on water or raised mountains. On the accounts of Jesus' healings, casting out demons, raising some dead people back to life, feeding thousands by multiplying loaves of bread and a few fish and dying on the cross for our sins - they simply answered that they do not accept these teachings.
I pointed out the story of the devil from Isaiah. The angel who led a revolt in heaven against God. Who was cast out along with his followers. They said that he is called "the demon." They said they were not aware of the full story. They only knew of the demon in their written account.
I also told them people worship that demon. They were aware of this. They also know that many people practice witchcraft and the like. They suddenly understood our common ground. They also understood that I fully know the history of the prophets.
One walked away during this conversation. One went to a corner to pray. In the end we discussed some news events and a bit about politics. We ended the evening on a good note with smiles, friendship and handshakes.
I don't think they'll be discussing religion with me anymore. But, if they do I will be respectful as I was this evening. It requires a lot of patience and love to let people tell their side of an issue.
Amen.