Deadly enemies?

Prince Harry has spoken of his part in attacking the Taliban in Afghanistan. David Cameron has spoken of the commitment to resist and defeat the forces of Islamist rebels in North Africa. In both cases, it is clear that 'peaceful coexistence' is not believed to be an option.

In some circles, it may be claimed that it is impossible for anyone to live in peaceful coexistence with Muslim people. 

But history and local experience tell a different story. 

Just as the 'peace process' in Northern Ireland has brought deep changes in that troubled area, so it is possible for people from different backgrounds to learn to live together, and work together on common tasks.

Last week, in Woking, there was a very hopeful gathering at Shah Jahan Mosque, marking United Nations Interfaith Harmony Week, and sponsored by several groups, including Woking People of Faith. It was great to see assorted Christian people engaging seriously and significantly with local leaders from Muslim and other backgrounds. These good relationships are not a denial of the deep-seated differences that there are between our communities. But they do show that there is plenty of common ground between people from all backgrounds. Finding the way forward, when relationships are difficult, is the challenge we face in many settings.

As usual, the Bible provides a model of relating positively with those from different backgrounds. 

When St. Peter is directed, by the Holy Spirit, to go to the home of a Roman centurion, Cornelius, he has to address his own racial and religious prejudices. Jews and Gentiles did not meet socially, as Jews considered all Gentiles are profoundly unclean. When Peter arrives at Cornelius' home, he explains his change of heart. 'Peter told them, “You know it is against our laws for a Jewish man to enter a Gentile home like this or to associate with you. But God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean. So I came without objection as soon as I was sent for.' (Acts 10.28-29)

In spite of the obvious and real differences between Christians and Muslims, we can be those who seek the good of our neighbours, and we may be in a position to share something of the life and love of Jesus. That would be much better than remaining as deadly enemies.

Best wishes,

Richard