History, Faith and Muslim-Christian Dialogue, 2

Muslim-Christian Dialogue in the U.S. is, thankfully, a growing enterprise, but at the same time it lacks depth. In both communities, but particularly in the Muslim community, there is some wariness about the motives and candor of the other. Muslims generally have realized the importance of explaining their tradition to fellow Americans. Their account of Islam, strong on its spirituality and morality, usually lacks acknowledgment of its history and diversity. Many Christians are committed to hospitality to Muslims and usually initiate the encounters. Many are regretful of past and present hostile treatments of Islam and Muslims, but often have difficulty presenting the core faith that unites all Christians beneath the quite evident divisions in the church. One possible path to a deeper understanding between Muslims and Christians is through an intensive and focused examination of our Scriptures.