One God, many forms of worship

The impression is often given in the media and in other ways that Islam is basically intolerant of all other faiths, and insists that Islam is the only way to a right relationship with God.

Although there are Muslims who fit this description, and even verses from the Koran one could find to support this view, it is also the case that there are many Muslims who are accepting of faiths other than their own, and whose attitudes are broad minded and inclusive. They too can appeal to passages of the Koran in support of their position. Today, I would like to quote one such passage. It is a translation of verses from Surah 22.

For the people of every nation, We have ordained a form of worship.

By this means, the people of each nation can praise God and give thanks for all that has been given to them.

There is only One God; let every nation submit to the One God of all.

Let us proclaim good news

to the humble whose hearts fill with awe at the mention of their Lord,

to those who endure their misfortunes with courage,

to those who are devout in their prayers,

to those who give generously from what God has given them.

I call all people to the path of the Lord.

I call all people to accept true guidance.

Some people dispute about God, though they possess neither true knowledge,

nor guidance, nor divine revelation.

I remind those of you who persist in argumentation

that God is aware of all your actions.

On the Day of Resurrection, God will resolve all disputes and disagreements.

As for those who have faith and do good works, God will welcome them

to a garden watered by running streams.

God's will is always done.

This is my prayer of response to this scripture:

God of all people and nations.

My heart delights in all the ways You have revealed Yourself

to all kinds of people in all places, down through the ages.

I love to worship You in

the temples and mosques,

the shrines and synagogues,

the churches and medicine wheels

that people have created for prayer and praise.

As I unite my heart in prayer with the hearts of others,

You enlarge my heart

and fill it with Your Love and Wisdom.

May I join the holy ones of all nations and ages

in walking the Path of Righteousness for Your Name's sake,

with devotion, courage, humility, and generosity.

Amen.