Infidel?

In light of President Obama's recent speech to the Muslims of the world, I found it very interesting to read the following information from a particular website. I was prompted to locate the actual source when I received an email containing a version of this statement from Rick Mathes.

Rick and his wife, Trish, are the founders of Mission Gate Prison Ministries, an outreach to those who are incarcerated and their families. The following is taken directly from his site:

Date Added: Jan. 14, 2004

Since the horrible events of September 11, 2001, the Islamic faith, and those who follow it, have been the subjects of intense scrutiny and distrust. Desperate to know why so many innocent people had to die, many have tried to "prove" that the Muslim faith is intrinsically violent. Given this social tone, it is not surprising that this chain letter, supposedly putting one of Islam's own on the spot, has become so popular. At the very least, we can say this is a one-sided account of real events.

By Rick Mathes

Last month I attended my annual training session that's required for maintaining my state prison security clearance. During the training session there was a presentation by three speakers representing the Roman Catholic, Protestant and Muslim faiths who explained their belief systems. I was particularly interested in what the Islamic Imam had to say.

The Imam gave a great presentation of the basics of Islam, complete with a video. After the presentations, time was provided for questions and answers. When it was my turn, I directed my question to the Imam and asked, "Please, correct me if I'm wrong, but I understand that most Imams and clerics of Islam have declared a holy jihad [Holy war] against the infidels of the world and, that by killing an infidel, which is a command to all Muslims, they are assured of a place in heaven. If that's the case, can you give me the definition of an infidel?"

There was no disagreement with my statements and without hesitation he replied, "Non-believers!"

I responded, "So, let me make sure I have this straight. All followers of Allah have been commanded to kill everyone who is not of your faith so they can go to Heaven. Is that correct?"

The expression on his face changed from one of authority and command to that of a little boy who had just gotten caught with his hand in the cookie jar. He sheepishly replied, "Yes."

I then stated, "Well, sir, I have a real problem trying to imagine Pope John Paul commanding all Catholics to kill those of your faith or Pat Robertson or Dr. Stanley ordering Protestants to do the same in order to go to Heaven!"

The Imam was speechless.

I continued, "I also have problem with being your friend when you and your brother clerics are telling your followers to kill me. Let me ask you a question! ...would you rather have your Allah who tells you to kill me in order to go to Heaven or my Jesus who tells me to love you because I am going to Heaven and wants you to be with me?"

You could have heard a pin drop as the Imam hung his head in shame.

Chuck Colson once told me something that has sustained me these 20 years of prison ministry. He said to me, "Rick, remember that the truth will prevail."

And it will!

Note from Ginger: I have no real understanding of the Muslim faith, but if the majority consider me an Infidel because of my differing beliefs, then why in the world would my President want to make America more accommodating to them?

A recent attack and murder of an American soldier in Arkansas by a proclaimed American Muslim because of his upset with America's stance in Iraq and Afghanistan sort of proves that the Muslim faith does not abdicate peace and love. The killing of an abortion doctor warranted more attention from the White House than the murder of this young GI who hadn't even seen battle yet. Do you suppose it was swept under the carpet so as not to interfere with the President playing nice with Muslims abroad? I fear for the future of this country because our President is so out of touch with what is going on in our own backyards. I'm sure you've seen the Jihad training camp maps I've posted. Isn't anyone else concerned?