Fatuma visited a drop in program for young immigrant mothers and preschool children at a nearby church. One of the children asked, “Where is God?” That caused an interesting discussion among them but no one gave a definitive answer. Fatuma said, “Even the leader didn’t know the answer.” I listened with some alarm arising in my heart wondering why the leader at the church run program had not given a clear answer. Fatuma was disappointed that she received no answer. It was thrilling to engage in conversation with her about that mystical question and she listened keenly.
No matter how kind we may be to a Muslim woman she will not know the Good News about Jesus Christ if she doesn’t hear anything. She does not know the story of salvation. In some lands which uphold democratic values and freedom of religion such as mine we have been made to believe it is not appropriate to share our faith verbally. Some Christians think it's not "politically correct" or even permissible to share our faith. So, we resort to being kind and doing good deeds. That is necessary and helpful for sure - just not complete.
It took a long time for me to boldly and clearly proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ to Muslims. I was usually fearful my friendships would be over, objections would be thrown at me, or that I would offend them. A Christian lady once asked me, “Joy, doesn’t it bother you to tell Muslims that they will go to hell?” I replied, “They already are afraid of going to hell and are very aware of their bad deeds and being punished. What they need to hear about is the Good News of how they can get to heaven and have their sins forgiven.” I don’t spend as much time proclaiming hell and punishment as much as heaven and a risen Savior who forgives sin and loves them. Muslims often won’t agree with what we proclaim but they do admire bold proclamation.
I haven't met a Muslim woman who has accepted Jesus as her Savior without hearing or reading about the gift of salvation found in Him. She may have a dream or vision which points towards Jesus Christ. But she still needs further explanation and information. A miraculous healing can convince her that Jesus is powerful but she still needs to know the Gospel message of who Jesus is and what He has accomplished on her behalf. It has been a thrilling journey of rising above my fears and hesitancy and diving in to proclaim the Good News. It is helpful to do that within the context of a loving and trusting relationship with our Muslim friends. I believe our biggest need is for boldness and that comes from the Holy Spirit. Ask the Holy Spirit for boldness. He will surely give it to us. And then… take the plunge. We will be in for a pretty exciting experience. I don’t think there is anything more exciting and energizing than proclaiming the Good News. We will be shocked at what comes out of our mouths. You will wonder, hey, where did that come from? Surprise - from the Holy Spirit!
Dear heavenly Father, I admit I am afraid to proclaim. I need boldness. Please help me to open my mouth and speak. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
