Previous Post – Facing The Journey Ahead

I came across the video below while doing some internet searches.  It presents itself as a group of Christians at an Arab cultural fair in the US trying to genuinely ask questions, but being “assaulted” and mistreated as a result.  The clip culminates in a thinly veiled warning about the future of America if Islam keeps growing:

Now, let me start by saying that clearly some individuals in the crowd and the security handled this situation poorly.  However, watching this video it hardly seems like these Christians were innocent victims but arrogant instigators.  Their language, tone, posture and even clothing (in one case) clearly reflected the antagonistic agenda with which they approached the situation.  The nationalistic overtones are offensive to me (and keep in mind that I am an American-born citizen of the USA & Canada).  Even if the Muslims in the video were entirely in the wrong, I hardly think the response these Christians presented reflected the Christ they so aggressively represent.

My point, however, is not to focus on the negative aspects of this video.  Rather I would like us to spend some time in the comment section reflecting on how this situation could have been handled differently.  Here are just a FEW of my thoughts:

-Posture of respect & humility: Coming with cameras clearly demonstrated a combative intent.  If has taken hundred and hundreds of Christians through Mosques to ask questions like this group claimed to be doing.  We were humble, respectful and open to dialogue.  We all learned a great deal, even though we could openly disagree.

-Hold ourselves to a higher standard than others: While we shouldn’t let people walk all over us, we are called to turn the other cheek.  If we expect to be treated with respect, we must expect twice that of ourselves.  We must be above reproach.

-Avoid nationalism: This should be a no brainer, but clearly it is not.  I guess in a culture where the Patriot’s Bible gets a second printing, I shouldn’t be surprised (and yes, I have intentionally avoided a link to that product).  Healthy patriotism is not at issue here, but the blurred line between ones identity as a Christians and their nationality (& politics) is dangerous ground.

What are your thoughts?