Finally, An Exit Strategy From Iraq

When a US Marine was called on the carpet last week for giving a medallion to Iraqi people that included a Bible verse, it was apparent that there is an ultimate "sin" that Americans cannot commit in Iraq. That "sin" is to share the gospel of Christ to the world in which we are called and where we serve. I am not a fan of the obnoxious Christian who forces their faith into an arena that is not appropriate. But it strikes me that in Iraq, we are already trying to force democracy and capitalism unto an unwelcome populace so offering an unwelcome Bible verse appears to be the least of our sins.

We have 150,000 "missionaries" carrying weapons and keeping the "peace" in a predominantly Muslim country. In my narrow mind, I wonder what would happen if they laid down their arms for a week and walked the streets of Iraqi cities and laid hands on the people and prayed for each of them and their families. Better yet, how about American soldiers from different faiths walking side by side to show the world what it means to have freedom of religion. When I walked the cemeteries and beaches of Normandy, there were symbols of many faiths on the grave markers and a human show of unity among all of our troops including American Muslims could symbolize something that the imams of Iraq and Iran would fear more than bullets or bombs. That would be the freedom to choose what you will believe and the resolve to allow people of all faith experiences to live together. Would that cause more killing than now? Would there be an outbreak of mercy and healing?

Come to think of it, maybe we should try that here first!

I know, we all think the fanatics would accuse our entire "armed forces" of proselytizing the people. That would clearly be cause for expulsion from the land. Finally, a worthy reason for being there. and even for leaving. We would have shared something far more valuable than politics or economics. Thanks to this unnamed Marine for his courage in sharing his faith. Finally an exit strategy! We may have hit on something that they have no answer for in the form of bullets, bombs, or suicide martyrs. If the message is not being received, it's time to shake the dust off of our boots and move on!

Mark 13:9-11

"You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit."

Monday Morning Message Sent 6/9/08

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