One problem I have encountered when sharing with Muslims here is that many do not know what they believe. An even larger number know some things about their religion but would rather defer to their Imam than try to articulate correct theology. There are many wonderful ways to bridge from Islamic belief to the gospel, but most are predicated on a certain understanding of Islam first.
It was a pilgrimage experience with many local Muslims. Early that morning, I joined this group from various places to reach the 3000m high place. From the foot of the mountain, I looked up, in the far distance, was a small square-box size of temple grave hung right up by the mountain cliff. The Muslims believe a legend that that was the spot where a mysterious old man from Iraq who did miracles appeared long time ago.
Early this fall, I was lucky to find myself returning to one of my favorite places – a small desert oasis town in the foothills of towering mountains. The city where I live was still hot from the summer, but in this small town the air was cool and crisp. As I braced myself for the cool of the morning and the night, I wore a long sleeve shirt and coat for the first time this season. During our time there our hotel was just turning on the heat for the beginning of the cold season.
My Arabic name is Jesus. I recently learned that Jesus is the name of a famous prophet. My new friend even said that he believes Jesus is the Savior of the world. I don’t know. I don’t understand why no one has ever told me who Jesus is. I am named after him, but I never realized it was a significant name.
The bus is full, but I squeeze through the crowd slowly inching my way towards the back of the bus. As I get close to the back, I see a seat on the last row. Since my journey is a long one, I make my way for the seat and sit down. I notice a pretty young woman sitting next to me with her purse resting on top of her legs. Her clothing is beautiful and full of bright colors while her head is covered with a beautiful bright pink scarf. She is beautiful and young looking.