I was instantly aware of how special Sameer (not his real name) and his family were when I met them 4 months ago. They had just moved from Iraq the day before, forced by a very present danger to their family. Despite their tragic story, Sameer displayed a genuine smile and, with very good English, expressed warmly how blessed he felt to have his family and a new home in America. He was excited to hear me speak the few word in Arabic I know - Salaam Aleikum (Peace be upon you), Insha'Allah (God willing), and Al Hamdullilah (Praise God), and told me he has a very nice younger brother. :-) (I quickly explained that I've already become acquainted with a very nice boy.)Over the next couple of months, I saw them only a few times when I had something to drop off for them. One of my visits, however, brought us much closer. I stopped by to deliver a vacuum (this has been a high demand item in most refugee homes), and stayed to talk for a little bit. I was so pleased to notice the improvement of Kalia's (not her real name) English since the last time I saw them.
While we were talking, the adhan (Islamic call to prayer) came from his computer. I have heard this before, so I knew that this meant it was time for them to pray. I kindly told them I didn't want to interrupt their time to pray, but Sameer told me there was no need to rush. Suddenly, I was moved, and asked if I could make salat (pray) with them. I think they were surprised, but gladly explained to me the process of washing and preparing to pray. Kalia gave me a scarf to wear around my head, and they brought out an extra prayer mat for me. Sameer graciously explained the procedure of the prayer, and the significance of each part. First, we released all of our anxieties from throughout the day, giving them over to God. Next, we recognized God's greatness. And toward the end of the prayer time, we would speak to God from our hearts, once we had submitted to His will. It was beautiful!
After praying together, Sameer, Kalia, and I sat and talked for an hour about how similar our spiritual past is, from Abraham and the prophets of the Bible and the Qur'an. He shared his experience in Iraq and how he saw the division take place between Americans and Iraqis. We all expressed a real desire to see better for our brothers and sisters. And we spoke of God's love and peace, which is sometimes ill-represented by individuals belonging to each of our religions. I was so blessed to hear their loving perspective of both Muslims and Christians.
I explained to Sameer and Kalia that I am a Seventh-Day Adventist, which means more to me than just Christianity because it carries even more similarity to Islam. We don't eat pork or drink alcohol, we value modesty, and we are waiting for the soon return of Jesus (the Judgement Day). As I explained this, he declared, "I am an Adventist too!" I was so touched by the openness I found in this family!
Since that exciting interaction, Sameer and his family have been joining our group each week as we study the Qur'an, following the path of the prophets. Not only have they enjoyed studying with us, but our group has largely benefited from their presence!
What a blessing God has given me to have met this family. They have become so dear to my heart!
