José crafted a class with the intention of studying “The Kairos Palestine Document” written by a group of Palestinian Christians to us, other Christians and people of faith around the world. It is their word to the world about what is happening in Palestine. José wanted to engage what’s happening in Palestine/Israel not as a political issue as it so often is, but first and foremost as a faith issue. If you haven’t yet participated, you are encouraged to do so.
This week, I invited some random participants to share a few reflections from the class thus far. I asked them to share 3 words that they would use to describe the class, something they have learned that they did not know before, and finally, how the class has impacted their faith. Here are a few responses received:
Amy –
~ 3 words: Insightful, reflective on ourselves and our faith, inspires me to not be bystanders about what I know is true.
~ A new learning: I learned that the U.S is giving money to Israel. >:[.
~ Impact on faith: The class made me reflect actually not on my faith, but on other people’s. Like I'm trying to live up to what God wants me to be; to be more like God and Jesus. And just seeing that there were Christians and many other believers made me wonder, “Are they really believing in their faith? Are they just saying that they are Christian, Muslim, etc. for show? Is their religion now the new label for "jocks", "nerds", etc.?” If so then I'm totally speechless.
Ed & Arlene –
~ 3 words: Informative, learning the pain of the Palestinians and to show caring.
~ A new learning: The history of the pain and suffering of the Palestinians. That it is a political issue for the world to help solve.
~ Impact on faith: Praying for world issues is an ongoing and most diligent prayer. Why do so many people in this world have to suffer and endure so much pain? Loving thy neighbor is more relevant than ever.
Steve –
~3 words: that's not fair.
~A new learning: how all the non Jews are treated with no respect & are a prisoner in their own land.
~ Impact on faith: we are all God's children & other people’s plight & struggles should also be mine. We give thanks for the leadership of José Arcellana and pray that our eyes will opened to see how we might do what matters most to God both in our very own neighborhoods and in the wider world that God so loves.