I would say that at least half of the refugees whom we work with are Muslim. They come from all over Africa, Burma, Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Muslims have become a huge part of our life. We love Muslims. They are some of the most hospitable and generous people that I have ever met. I know many Americans simply just do not understand them because most Americans are not in relationship with Muslims. And after 9/11, I am sure Americans are a little weary of them. I understand this, but we should still try to make more of an effort to befriend Muslims.
In the media, you are only seeing a fraction of the Muslim population in this world. You are only hearing the bad stories about Muslims. But most are like you and me; just people trying to take care of their families and make it through life. And just like in our culture, there are some people who do really bad things. Turning on our local news could make you fear walking out the door in Dallas. Am I right? Don’t get sucked in by the media. Create your own perception of the world by engaging in it and with people. Do we have the right to judge a world or people we do not truly know?
Our experience is very different from what you see in the media. They treat us with great respect. Again, they are so generous and hospitable. If you go to their home, you will be treated as an honored guest.
Muslims love to talk about spiritual things. They don’t separate the spiritual and the practical like many of us do; I know I do sometimes. So, they are very open to spiritual conversations. I know most people think it is difficult to talk with Muslims about God, but that’s just not the case. They love to talk about God. God is the most important thing to most of them.
When we talk about Jesus, they do not kick us out. When we offer prayer, they never reject it. In fact, some Muslim families heard about how our team prayed over a family who had been in an accident. Next thing you know, all those Muslim families are calling our team and asking us to pray for them. When someone got sick and went to the hospital, who did they call? Us! Followers of Jesus. So let’s not be afraid of Muslims. They are open. They want our friendship and our love just like anyone else. These are beautiful people and God loves them so much. I think that is the most important thing. We should love who God loves!
One of the best parts of being friends with Muslims is the food! I added some pics of the food. Also, I should explain the pics below because some people might start to get a little worried about me:) Muslims love to teach you about their culture. They may even dress you up like a Muslim. They may even dress your baby up as a Muslim too!
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Hello, Kyle and Melissa! This is such a beautiful post. Here in the UAE, my husband and I work with people from almost all types of religions, and we’re all really good friends. I agree with you that we need to be in a relationship with someone in order to get to know them well. Developing friendships is a good way to learn so much about people.
Thank you for sharing the lovely pictures too. The food spread looks so good!
thank you so much!!! Really means a lot
Kyle
Kyle and Melissa, I loved reading this today and wanted to let you know that your first blog letter was so wonderful, and came on Valentine’s Day and I I realized that you two are a walking valentine of God’s love to all the people you come in contact with. I meant to send a comment but I remember now what I was thinking but wasn’t sure how to. God has used you so much to let people see Jesus through you but most importantly to show others how Jesus sees them. The pictures are wonderful of you sharing with these families and seeing the children playing together. What an amazing impact you are making.