And, for those who are joking about Islam–let’s try to be respectful. If you do not know about certain tenets of faith, it is better to not guess or joke about it. Here is a link about mecca.
I have muslim friends who are very loving and caring people. We debate our faiths vigorously, but above all, God calls us to love, even those who do not follow our Church. I love my friends, and two Muslim friends that I had a few years ago, converted to Catholicism…so, it goes to show, that we are witnesses to our faith everyday. (not to say that I helped in their conversion–lol:blush: although, I was always careful to discuss Christ’s love for them) Let’s not pretend we are better or superior to non Catholics–simply put, we are not. We are here to love and serve as a witness for our faith, not joke and belitte those who are on a different path, for whatever their reasons are. I will say though that one of my observations with these friends of mine, is that they are very prayerful people. Devoted to fasting, and modesty. There are exceptions to all religions, but I think that my friends’ prayer lives are very extensive and embedded in their everyday life. There are some common bonds that we share, just as people trying to be faithful to God, between Muslims and Christians. Now, the fundamental beliefs are very different–but, we can lead people to Christ, if we just put down our pride about these differences, and show them that He loves them.
And–Christ died for us all…that is what intrigued my friends way back when. Islam does not have a God sacrificing for His people–They simply do not worship God in that way (and also a big also–is that Islam teaches that Christ was not the One who died on the cross–no one died for our sins, basically), and we believe in a triune God, which they interpret that as polytheistic. So, once you break down some of these common misconceptions, your talks with Muslims will be rather enjoyable. It can take time, and patience…but Christ died for us all–Muslim, Jew, Gentile…Christians…for us ALL. It is a beautiful thing when someone converts from Islam because of that beautiful Truth.
God bless.
Oh, here’s the link about mecca:
lexicorient.com/e.o/mecca.htm