Ask me about Jesus

“Behold! The angels said: ‘O Mary! God giveth thee glad tidings of a Word from Him. His name will be Jesus Christ, the son of Mary, held in honor in this world and the Hereafter and in (the company of) those nearest to God.’”

Ever read this verse in your Bible? I bet you have not because it is verse 45 of Chapter 3 in the Quran; the Muslim Holy Book that reveals God's Word. Surprise? And you thought Muslims were aliens, huh? Not really. When it comes to Jesus, peace be upon him, Muslims are the closest to Christians despite some differences in views.

To Muslims, he was a man born of a virgin, Mary, whom her mother dedicated her to God from the time she was in the womb: "Behold! a woman of 'Imran said: "O my Lord! I do dedicate unto Thee what is in my womb for Thy special service: So accept this of me: For Thou hearest and knowest all things." Quran: Chapter 3, verse 35.

Hence, Muslims believe Jesus was a man born from virginity, by a divine command. He was given prophet hood from birth and has performed miracles by God's leave. They don't believe in Crucifixion as they believe Jesus had not died, but had been elevated to Heavens where he remains until he comes back before the end of times and the Day of Judgement.

So where do Muslims meet Christians in this respect? Over the bridge of love for Jesus. Do you know that Muslims get offended when Jesus is mocked at? Indeed, Muslims are required to believe and revere all the biblical prophets as part of their faith. Prophet Mohammad has mentioned that “Both in this world and in the Hereafter, I am the nearest of all people to Jesus, the son of Mary. The prophets are paternal brothers; their mothers are different, but their religion is one,” in a statement that proves that both prophets carried the same message from the same One God.

So there you go, next time you would like to inspire yourself with the love of Jesus, why don't you ask your Muslim neighbor to share with you the many facts he or she knows about Jesus from the Quran? Don't forget to do that over a cup of coffee: the aroma will warm your hearts!