In the last weeks, the Palestinian Christian community has seen two of our own sons convert to Islam. When looking on the net and social media sites, we are able to see the local Islamic community in the Holy Land has celebrated and has even expressed its angst towards us Christians. From their point of view, this is an insult for us and this insult is long overdue. However, as one who has lived in similar circumstances as these two young men, except on the other side of the spectrum, I would like to express some thought about these situations.

Make no mistake, we the Christian body within the Palestinian community are heartbroken to see these two young men being used as pawns in the hands of spiritual leaders. We agree that these two young men made their choice and for whatever reasons, be they legit or illegitimate, have publicly spoken out about their conversion to Islam. Therefore, I support their decisions and declare that our Church doors will forever be open to them when they choose to return to Jesus once again. This is what Jesus would do if he were there today. He would be watching and waiting for these two lost children to return home.

Being an Ex-Muslim convert into Christianity from the land of Jerusalem, I see these two converts and have to say that although I hate to see them convert, I must support their freedom to choose their doctrine and religion. For this reason, I publicly challenge the Islamic community in our beautiful land to allow this same freedom for all the underground ex Muslims. I have met them. I know they exist and I know they desire such liberty.

Therefore, as a gesture of support for these two sons who have left the Christian faith, I call upon their new leaders to reciprocate likewise this freedom to other sons and daughters to choose their own doctrines. I have spoken loudly about my conversion out of Islam into Christianity for the sake of these who are afraid to do so. I want those who have yet to take their stand for freedom of religions, to know that Jesus is with you even in your situation and that one day, soon, you who live in Islamic communities will experience this freedom which our two sons this week have enjoyed.

We are Palestinians by blood and this is our honor and this will never change. It is who we are. However, faith is completely different. It must be a belief which a person must accept and be given wholly over to it. Unlike our Palestinian heritage, our beliefs are shaped and developed with time. It is our human nature and God given right to freely think. This is fundamental to our good wellbeing. We, Christians and Muslims, must have the ability to believe as we choose with nothing standing in our way. God gave us freedom to believe what we choose is best for us.

Therefore, I and the Christian community do not stand in the way of these two who choose Islam. We request the same of the Islamic community and expect nothing less. This is fair for all.

By: Hazem Farraj

Host of Reflections Tv

Palestinian by Blood
Christian, by Choice