Friends,
In our scripture lesson for Sunday, Oct. 11 (Exodus 1:8-2:10, 3:1-5), a new Egyptian king or pharoah comes to power. This new king, without memory of the history of the peaceful relationship between the Hebrew people living in Egypt and the Egyptian people, fears the people who are different than he is.
He fears their numerical growth. The king takes a sequence of actions against the Jewish people that are increasingly harsh. Hard labor becomes slavery becomes an attempt to kill boy infants at birth becomes an order to throw male children in the river.
A parallel exists in our nation today as too many Christians stir up fear and hatred of our Muslim sisters and brothers. Politicians who should be leading us to our better selves instead encourage bigotry against Muslims. The latest actions against Muslims are a series of rallies planned and happening this weekend.
Our faith in the God of extravagant love and justice calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31). Rallies against our Muslim neighbors are steeped in fear, anger, and misinformation. They are not love. They are not “of God.”
Please join me in responding to those filled with anti-Muslim hatred with a reminder that we are all created in the image of God. Remember we share the same patriarch of faith: Abraham.
Pastor, Condon United Church of Christ
See also: UCC General Minister and President the Rev. John C. Dorhauer, is issuing a call to local congregations to stand with our Muslim brothers and sisters in response to planned anti-Muslim rallies this weekend. Click here for more information.
Our Central Pacific Conference Minister also sent out information regarding a response of love instead of hate. Click here for Walter John Boris’ message.
