Peace
This is a real-life story of recent events from one of the local Mahabba groups in the Network. Names and details have been deliberately removed to protect the identity of those involved, but praise God - he is working in the lives of Muslims to reveal Jesus!
My peace I give you
It is not every day you get to walk along the main road with the chief imam of the town’s most prestigious mosque, but that was my privilege.
We had a great talk.
Along with all the general things, we talked about similarities and differences between our respective faiths.
I discovered he owned a Bible.
At one point we got talking about how proper respect should be shown to the prophets.
When Muslims speak of Jesus they have to say,
“Peace be upon him”
I told him I could never say that.
“How can I wish peace on him? He is the one who promises peace to us. I would rather say, ‘May his peace be upon us’”
I took out my wallet and drew out a printed scripture text,
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid”
It is one of the texts I always have with me because this issue comes up.
Two weeks later he accepted my invitation to have lunch at the church café.
For him it was unanticipated view of church and church people.
Again we talked about lots of things.
At one point we got on to the disobedience of the Prophet Jonah.
The imam talked about all the prophets asking forgiveness.
I pointed out that one never needed to, Jesus Christ who never sinned.
He did not argue. Islam does not disagree.
We are building a friendship. We will see where God takes it. There are more opportunities in round here than meet the eye.
Your turn
Have you been touched by this story? If so, you can play your part.
- Share the amazing news of God moving among Muslim with your friends via e-mail or social media, using the links below
- Support Mahabba in its work to equip everyday Christians to build relationships and share Jesus with Muslims