Evangelism Idea: 911?

There has been a ton of controversy about the pastor in Florida lately! That, coupled with the "ground zero mosque" debate, anniversary of 911 and continuing violence in the middle east have created an atmosphere of discussion about Islam many Americans have never experienced. Just last night I had the privelege of hanging out with the MPM Amp students here in Denver and, not surprisingly, much of the night's discussion centered around how we should relate to Muslims. I have Muslim friends I love dearly (if you happen to read this post we miss you and love you). If any of these hot topic issues comes up in conversations you have, make sure not to miss this opportunity to share God's heart! Remember Jesus' words in Mt.12:31, "Love your neighbor as yourself." Muslims aren't our enemies but people God loves and desires a relationship with. Luke 6:27-28 goes even futher saying, "But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." All that being said, God's desire is to reach all people with the hope and salvation found only in Jesus. That is a higher priority than any political conversation we could get ourselves into concerning these issues. We need to be wise enough to make these convrsations opportunities for the gospel rather than heated debates. When you find yourself in one of these conversations, take the initiative to turn it back to the Christ's payment for your and my sins and the reality that no other religion can offer such hope. Bring these potentially mean-spirited debates around to loving conversations about Jesus!