Sunday, November 25, 2007

Another interesting topic speaking to Muslims

Here is another topic that I can offer as part of fraternal and sisterly communication between Roman Catholics and Muslims to show that where there is perceived to be a gap, there really is not one.

Today is the Feast of Christ the King. In my previous post I include part of Pope Benedict XVI's words, where he refers to Jesus as King of the Universe.

We know that the word King is a temporal word. It refers to a human concept of rulership, and just kings only reign at the behest of God. So it is not inconsistent to believe in One God, Allah, and to believe that God has appointed Jesus to be King of the Universe. Because Jesus was the Messiah and the human linkage between humans who cannot understand God without assistance, and God who is beyond titles such as "King," there is no disrespect to the One God to affirm that God has the power to appoint Jesus King of the Universe. It is consistent with both Biblical and Qur'an scripture that Jesus fulfilled this role on behalf of humanity. As a true "king" he "served the people" at the appointment of God. This role is to the glory of Allah, of God, rather than a disrespect or taking away from acknowledgement that only God is the All Mighty.

I hope this helps in mutual peace and understanding. God bless all the faithful.