After hearing about "Pastor" Terry Jones this week, I knew that I needed to write down my thoughts. Especially when I realized that I had exceeded the maximum characters in my status box on face-book. So here is my response.
"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 'that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 'For if you love those who love you, what reward have you?'..." Mat. 5:43-47
As I was reflecting on this verse, I thought "Who in this scenario is the so-called enemy?" From Jones' perspective those of the Islamic faith and more so radicals of Islam are of his focal point. And for many tonight, Jones plans are the very thing that falls within our own lines of enemy territory. What are we to do? How are we to respond?
Jesus gives us a clear answer; to love our enemies. I know it is easier said than done. But here with this very obstacle we are given the chance to respond not out of hatred or anger, but of compassion and willingness. Hate is a deadly cycle and Jesus has been more than aware of such hurt and evil amongst our world for so long.
Terry Jones seems to be under the belief that he is stepping out with a boldness claiming such a radical demonstration is one necessary to be of an "insult". While nearby Christians of the Gainesville, FL community have begun to do their best to counteract such illustrations with readings from the Qur'an. Jones responded to ABC News about this position of this group of Christians, "... it tells me we've lost, that we've lost the battle. Christianity has lost their guts, they're not willing to stand up. Jesus himself said I am the only way..." (ABC NEWS)
Personally, I inevitably recognize that the Church has failed at many things. However, such a response like Jones is one that does anything but further the Kingdom of God.
All the turmoil and devastation that has taken place on earth and continues should be the very thing to motivate all believers of Christ to proclaim who He is and the love He has for all of His children. The silly thing is, we believers do know the end of the story. Because of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ the very Son of God. We will come out of the wilderness, leaning on Our Beloved. How amazing is that? Please be encouraged by the truth in that.
With all this said, burning the Qur'an in spite of Islam on the anniversary of 9/11 (any day for the matter) is the farthest thing from loving. I sincerely pray that God will intervene and soften the heart of Terry Jones and all supporters, Jesus uproot this situation entirely. Make Your way amidst all our weak and human chaos. Show us how to love all our brothers and sisters, all.
"And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma." Ephesians 5:2
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