Last Tuesday morning I was waiting to meet someone at a coffee shop in Lansdale when I noticed a guy reading a pamphlet titled "Islam and Christianity." I asked him what he was learning and what his motivations were for reading a pamphlet like that. He explained to me that he believed in Jesus, but wanted to know more of the similarities than the differences between the two religions. He told me that he is believes in Jesus, but isn't a Christian - and doesn't desire to be. Brian told me he is much more New Age in approach, relying on the powers and energies of the world. [It was apparent that he has a very syncretistic faith, mixing and matching certain elements of different religions in order to make up his own, which is becoming more and more common in our culture.]
As we talked a Pakistani woman named Zanara looked up from her notes she was studying for her medical exam, turned around and said, "That's really cool...I'm a Muslim and its good to hear people are wanting to know more about the truth of Islam." Zanara told us her story and how she and her family are practicing Ramadan (Muslim holy month of fasting) this month.
Brian and I asked more questions of each other and of Zanara, which resulted was a 30 minute conversation about faith and where we all fit into it as humans. They asked me why I was a Christian and I told them about Jesus and the cross and the point of Church and its purpose, role and function on the earth. They were intrigued and both said that they wanted to know more about Renew.
Brian was most intrigued by it all, saying that he's used to Christians judging him and putting down other religions, not willing to ask more questions and learn more. We shook hands as he was leaving and said, "Hey, I'm sorry I judged you. Maybe I've judged Christianity by a few small interactions I've had with some. Your explanation of following Jesus is intriguing. We should stay in touch and meet here and talk again. What's your email?"
I love these conversations but I'm sometimes overwhelmed by the fact that there is so much need for the expression of a clear and compelling gospel in our area. Pray for Brian and Zanara and for opportunties for future interactions and conversations with them.
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