Lowe's ad controversy

One news story's been a veritable buffet for thought lately. It concerns the retailer Lowe's and its decision to pull ads from a reality show called "All-American Muslim." If you're unfamiliar with this, the story is here.

Truthfully, my knee-jerk reaction was to support the decision by the retailer. Lowe's is a private business, and they have a right to advertise where they want. Also, non-Muslims face much worse persecution in Islamic countries. People of other faiths are treated as second-class citizens in these nations. Granted, there have been some incidents of persecution of Muslims in America since 9/11, but it can hardly be compared to what happens to religious minorities in Islamic countries. I also remember the anger and outrage I felt on 9/11 and how Osama bin Laden was honored like a rock star in some nations.

On the other hand, I question whether this is a godly attitude to have. Would Jesus — who asked us to pray for our enemies — approve? Is my pride and arrogance in the way? Is it right to hold a grudge against an entire group of people for the actions of a tiny minority? If we were to use that logic, then Christians would just as easily become pariahs. And if some groups are persecuted in Islamic countries, do we want to repay that evil in our own?

A few weeks ago, I watched the show. It was interesting to see how Muslims balance their religious practices in a Western society — and it showed that Muslims don't spend all their time plotting the destruction of America. Programs like this can help us grow in understanding and respect for other cultures and/or religions, even if we may not agree with them. After all, it's harder to hate someone if you get to know him.

As for those who disagree with this post, all I can say is read what Jesus said in Matthew 5:

⁴³ “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ⁴⁵ that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. ⁴⁶ If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? ⁴⁷ And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? ⁴⁸ Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Also, what the apostle Paul said Ephesians 6:2:

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

When we make enemies out of our neighbors, it makes it easier to push them from Christ — this is in direct opposition to the Great Commission. If we're kind only to those we agree with, does that show that we've been changed by Jesus? In the end, I want my life to be remember for what I loved, not what I hated.