Across the Pastor’s Desk by Kenneth Jensen

Recently, a reporter interviewed a focus group of American Muslims. The young adults expressed anxiety and fear over the growing xenophobia against them and their faith during this election cycle.

To the apparent amazement of the focus group, one young man spoke up. Said he, “I see this as an opportunity to show the world who we really are.”

Good grief! We Christians appear to be running around like chickens with their heads cut off afraid Islam is the big, bad wolf who will take over our country and we will be governed under Shari’a law.

What does this say about us who claim the name of Christ? Are we able to show the world who we really are? If not, why not?

It is understandable atheists, agnostics and nominal Christians cower in fear before those who warn of Islamic terrorism and the threat of life lived under Shari’a law. (It serves us well to remember the time when the Ku Klux Klan was a “Christian” terrorist organization.)

The disciples expressed such fear during a storm on the Sea of Galilee. “Lord save us! We’re going to drown!” they cried. To which Jesus replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” (Matthew 8:25-26 NIV).

In his gospel John wrote, “But to all who receive him (Jesus), who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God (John 1:12 RSV). After the resurrection, Jesus told his followers to stay in Jerusalem Pentecost.

Is it not our opportunity to show the world who we really are? Dare we trust in the power the Holy Spirit has given us as children of God? We have been chosen to forgive our enemies, to show compassion toward those who suffer discrimination, sickness, poverty and injustice, including refugees. Such piety is possible when we invest in worship, Bible study, prayer and Christian fellowship. Are you able? Are you willing? Are you ready?

 

The Rev. Kenneth A Jensen is a retired ELCA pastor living in Albert Lea.