Time to reach out to other cultures

Imagine my shock, that after a lifetime of admiration for the principles on which America was founded, proudly serving the U.S. military during Operation Iraqi Freedom, being kidnapped, tortured and left for dead because of this service, receiving commendations for my faithful service and eventually, permission to immigrate to this great country, there are people in my beloved community who shout at me to go back to my homeland, that I am unwelcome here.

I heard about an "informative meeting" being held at a nearby church and I felt an urging in my spirit to attend. In fact, I was somewhat surprised I had not been specifically invited, since it was on the topic of Refugee Resettlement in Idaho, and it is well known community-wide that I have researched this topic and actually have some hands-on experience in this area. Not to mention the fact that I am an Iraqi man who could be considered an expert on the subject of Middle Eastern culture.

It became immediately apparent this was not just an informative meeting, but a forum orchestrated by ignorance, promoting fear of the Arabic culture, spewing hatred against my people. These folks gathered beneath the cross in a church sanctuary, and rather than take the opportunity to learn how to reach a culture of new Americans for Jesus Christ, some of the speakers name-called and made sweeping generalizations.

I have always felt such pride in my country, the United States of America, as it continues to fulfill its historic role as the "melting pot" of many nations. We all originated from Adam, so despite our physical differences or our countries of origin, we should have some connection with every person we share this planet with.

Rather than fear and hate those who live differently than we do, we should follow Jesus' example, shining a light in the dark, modeling a humble spirit, a heart of service, and an attitude of forgiveness and unconditional love.

Evangelist Michael Paul is president of Salvation for Muslims in Coeur d'Alene.