LYN -- Love Your Neighbor

These days, we tend to focus on the threat of terrorism.  It is a big and very partisan issue in the discussion of defense spending.  Though we tend to stereotype terrorists to have olive-colored skin and turbans, it’s important to realize that terrorism is not limited to acts done by those in the Middle East.  Terrorism exists right here in the United States.  As a matter of fact, it has grown quite rampant since 9/11.  I happen to live nearby a gathering place for terrorism promoters.  That’s right everyone; I live near a church.

There was a time in my life, and I think that there is still a time in anyone’s life, where the support of a church is really helpful.  In a time of struggle, in a time of crisis, the church can offer hope to the hurting and faith in the Father to the fearful.  However, I there is no question that in light of the “Great Scare” of this generation (i.e. post 9/11 America) there seems to be a surge to maintain a sizeable distance between Christians and Muslims.

Why should Christians be so afraid?  Last time I checked, it wasn’t my Muslim friends showing off their guns to every passerby.   It was not a Muslim who opened fire in a movie theater in Colorado.  As a matter of fact, the most recent, major news headline including Muslims was the Sikh Temple shooting where a white male opened fire against the men and women of this religion.

It is not fair and it is not right to assume this group is out to destroy American principles, as I have heard so many people say.  I cannot think of many, if any, amendments in the Constitution which means as much as the freedom of speech, expression and religion.  Are we a Christian nation? Yes, by foundation.  So what does that mean?  It means we OUGHT to love our neighbor.