With all of the news about protests in Egypt, what are we to think? A Christian perspective would certainly advocate for democratic elections, with hopes that religious freedoms would be encouraged and expanded. However, one does not necessarily lead to the other. Iraq has shown that democracy and religious freedom are not necessarily automatic.
Further, we should all be in prayer and rightfully concerned at the recent involvement of the Muslim Brotherhood in cooperating with recent protests. These protests originated among the youth and intellectuals of the nation seeking a new government after 30 years of dictatorship. The Muslim Brotherhood, though claiming it is a non-violent group cooperating in the process, has a long history of violent activities.
Joel Rosenberg’s recent post highlights many of these actions along with some taking place even during the current protests. It is certainly worth a look for those of us seeking to better understand what is taking place on the streets of Cairo. If the Muslim Brotherhood seeks peace and non-violence, it will be a relatively new direction for this movement.
Regardless, we would do well to continue to keep the Egyptian people in our thoughts and prayers in the days ahead as events unfold that will influence our world for years to come.
P.S. If you’re there or know someone who is, email or post an update in the comments below. I would love to hear from you.
+++
DILLON
BURROUGHS is an author, activist, and co-founder of Activist Faith.
Dillon served in Haiti following the epic 2010 earthquake and has
investigated modern slavery in the US and internationally. His books
include Undefending Christianity, Not in My Town (with Charles J.
Powell), and Thirst No More (October). Discover more at DillonBurroughs.org.