I like talking with Muslims. They’re great people and always eager to talk about God. One time I was speaking with an Arab couple in the Middle East about spiritual things. During the conversation we began to talk about peace and the need for peace in the world. I described to them that I believed there was only one answer for lasting peace. In the Tawrat (the Old Testament), the prophet Isaiah prophesied of the birth of one who would be called the Prince of Peace (see Isaiah 9:6). He was speaking of Jesus the Messiah hundreds of years before he was born.
We all know there are many differences between Islam and Christianity about who Jesus is. But it is also clear that he is very important in both religions. Even though it can sometimes be uncomfortable to talk with a typical American about Jesus, it is usually quite easy to talk about Jesus with Muslims.
I shared with this couple why I believe that if we want peace we ought to learn from the one whom God calls the Prince of Peace. I also explained to them why Jesus the Messiah can bring us peace with God, for we all are separated from him by the sins we commit everyday. As a Christian follower of Jesus I believe Jesus died on the cross and rose again and by this death and resurrection he brings peace with God.
Because I know Muslims do not believe Jesus died, I was surprised when their first response was, “Your speech is beautiful.” They then told me I should write a book in Arabic and explain what the Bible and Qur’an have to say about Jesus especially in relation to peace. I certainly am not equipped to do that (maybe someday!), but I really appreciated they way they interacted with me.
Though we come from very different religious and cultural backgrounds we were able to engage one another about really important issues with grace and kindness without pretending we have no differences. This Muslim couple blessed me. I hope I blessed them. This is what I want for this blog—Muslims and Christians having honest, serious and gracious dialogue in the hopes of better understanding one another.
Ultimately I want peace between Muslims and Christians and I want each of us to enjoy peace with God. I believe the Prince of Peace is the answer to this. I’d love for you to join me in the conversation.
Dustin? It’s you, right. Wow, I’m glad to see you started a blog. I look forward to checking back here and learning more.
With you for the kingdom,
Doug
Great job, Dustin. Glad you’ve started blogging. I think you have a very good — and not very common — perspective on these things. Looking forward to all that you have to say here!
Ok, I’m inspired! I’m looking forward to reading more.
Dustin, you know me, and know that I’ve lived in the Middle East for a considerable time. It’s interesting to see that although Christian background people can be living next to Muslim background people that there is still much ignorance about what the other believes. Sometimes in the interest of tolerance each group chooses to avoid the subject of faith. While well intended, choosing not to discuss things and ask questions of each other often builds the wall of ignorance and separation higher. I hope your sharing will break those barriers. Best wishes!
Dustin,
Thank you for taking the time to write. I am very excited about this blog and the impact it could have for people living everywhere. We so need more cultural understanding and dialogue with people of other faiths and cultures!
Thanks Mark. I would love for you to add your own cultural insights from Japanese culture as we go along. It is neither Islamic nor Christian, yet made by God and certainly has things to teach us!
This is why I read hispeaceuonus.com. Love the post.