So once again a so-called Christian family values group (the Florida Family Association) is attempting to use money to trump Constitutional rights. And tolerance…

FFA successfully urged home improvement big-box Lowe’s to pull its advertising from the TV show All-American Muslim. Calling the show ‘propoganda,’ FFA basically called all American Muslims a ‘clear & present danger’ to America.

I don’t get it. I grew up in a Christian household, and nowhere in the Bible (which we were expected to read in toto, just FYI) does Jesus say we’re supposed to propogate fear against our neighbours. In fact, the parable of the Good Samaritan (in Luke, for those of you who haven’t read your Bible) pretty clearly states that neighbours help each other — even those framed by a legacy of hatred. Samaritans and Jews were not friendly in the time of Jesus. So for a Samaritan to be more honourable than even a priest is a big deal.

I fully accept every American’s right to vote w/ his or her pocketbook. But the co-opting of a religion based in love, a religion that gave us the Beatitudes (blessed are the peacemakers), seems so unfortunate. Especially at this time of celebration, when the Christian world is in Advent, anticipating the birthday of Jesus.

Just how can Americans — who happen to be Muslim — be considered ‘a clear & present danger’ simply by virtue of their faith? What is so scary about these other children of Abraham?

I know I’m only a beginner at this whole ‘love your neighbour’ thing, but this kind of behaviour strikes me as… well, not very loving. And very sad, as well ~

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