SOUNDING OFF:Embracing all faiths won’t bring peace

Imam Sayed Moustafa Al-Qazwini in Friday’s commentary discusses the need for Americans to carry the torch of religious diversity high and proud, and for the good of mankind, to practice respect and peace (“Respect, peace must be spiritual priorities,” Community Commentary, May 25).

He concludes by saying: “It is our duty, as representatives of faith, to continue to reach out to others, to find amicable solutions through dialogue and to heal and strengthen the common bond of man.”

I would just like to state that here in America you are free to exercise your freedom to worship God through various religious faiths. And America is proud to defend this freedom and the American rights and U.S. Constitution founded by our forefathers. There is no other country in the world as diverse as America.

The same cannot be said about the Muslim countries where a non-personal God is served in fear, not faith and love. Wasn’t it just a few days ago the news told of a young girl from the Yazidi religion who was stoned to death in Iraq for falling in love with a Muslim boy? Likewise, if you leave the Muslim faith to follow the teachings of Christ this is considered the ultimate betrayal and you will be executed.

My friends, the Living God of the Bible never taught us to melt together and embrace all forms of religion.

In contrast, we are taught by Jesus Christ, the Living Word, that God does not seek men to follow a man-made religion, but instead, is seeking men who will establish a personal relationship with Him and follow His commands as demonstrated by the perfect example of His Son, Jesus Christ.

His commands are this: Love God with all your heart, mind and soul, and the second, love your neighbor as thyself. In doing these, you will fulfill the entire law of the prophets.

There cannot be world peace, love and respect until the entire world kneels before Jesus Christ.

lives in Santa Ana Heights.