Reconciliation Was Not On The Menu: Near East

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Reconciliation Was Not On The Menu

Near East | OM International

Reconciliation Was Not On The Menu

What does reconciliation smell like? Does it smell like nervous strangers precariously placed in a small room together as they begin to see each other for the first time as friends instead of enemies? Does it have the aroma of sweet perfume to the Creator God?

What does reconciliation feel like? Is it the strong grasping of another’s hand or a lasting embrace?

What does reconciliation sound like? Is it loud pleas for forgiveness or quiet hearts in submission to one another? Does the sound of prayerful souls in one accord bring glory to our Maker?

What does reconciliation look like? The room was full of Arabs of various backgrounds...Shi’ite, Christian, Druze and Kurds coming together in the name of Jesus Christ. It is in this room that Muslim background Believers met together and saw others that have turned to Jesus as their Savior and Lord. Seeing Jesus in the eyes of someone that was once an enemy, now these men and women could stand together as brothers and sisters in Christ.

Recently over fifty Muslim background Believers attended a conference to discuss themes including “Biblical Perspectives on Persecution,” “Anticipating and Enduring Persecution,” and “Why We Should Share Our Faith.” What was not listed in the topics was reconciliation. Reconciliation was not planned, but instead happened spontaneously. It went across the room in all directions. People repented and asked forgiveness of those of other groups and nationalities. This is of monumental significance in this region, which is desperately fragmented due to the recent history of civil war between these groups.

Moreover, breakthrough was experienced among the conference attendees as they gathered for coffee after the evening meetings. The discussion turned to how could they reach their own communities in an appropriate and contextualized way. These Believers were now experiencing the heart of God for the nations. Praise the Lord for His work in these hearts and lives. May these Believers be the “fragrance of life” in this troubled region of the world (2 Corinthians 2 & 5).