I have a love/hate relationship with fireworks. If you’ve ever been in an Indian city for Diwali you might relate. Mind numbing cacophony with ‘round the clock explosions. If I lived in India, I’d definitely visit Pakistan during Diwali!
Later though, while staying in England, an amazingly kind Afghan family invited us to shoot off fireworks with them to celebrate Guy Fawkes Day. Two immigrant families commemorating a guy who failed to blow up Parliament: A tad surreal, but the relationship begun that night lasted the entirety of our stay.
July 4th is just around the corner and provides a plum opportunity for us to connect with Muslims.
Is there a family in, or just outside, your sphere of relationship you might reach out to with one of these invitations:
- Hey, we’re having some friends over for food and games for the Fourth. We’d like you to join us.
- We’re planning to attend the fireworks show down on the Riverwalk (or where ever!). Can you come with us? I’ll bring some snacks.Â
- We’re going for a short hike on Monday. If you have the day off, we’d love for you to do that with us. Will you?
Here’s what I’m considering: There are two boys in my son’s karate class named Yusef and Islam. Going out on a limb and guessing their parents are Muslim, I’m going to try to initiate a conversation with them that will lead to a July 4th visit of some sort.
Does anyone come to mind for you? If yes, let’s do it. If no, please say a prayer for the rest of us.
If you think yes, but hurdles immediately pop into your mind, please take 30 seconds and jot them down here. Maybe together we can find ways to tap the power of God so we can be the people of Jesus.
PS: Let’s continue to pray for Afghans as they wrestle with yet another tragedy. May God have mercy.Â