The morning light filtered through the tall stained-glass windows of the church hall, casting multicolored reflections on the wooden floor. Maria sat in the pew, her hands clasped tightly around her rosary. Lately, her prayers had taken on a new form—less about ritual and more about understanding.
Days had passed in a rhythm that had become familiar: charity work and prayers during the day, deep conversations with Ayesha at night. Maria found herself eagerly awaiting those late-night moments when she could connect with someone who had become both a mentor and a friend.
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Nighttime Discussions
That evening, Maria opened her laptop, the soft glow of the screen illuminating her face. Ayesha's message popped up almost immediately.
Ayesha:
As-salamu alaykum, Maria. How was your day today?
Maria:
Wa alaykum as-salam, Ayesha. It was good. I distributed food to the homeless in Ambreen's name again. It feels fulfilling, but there's always this voice in my head asking if I'm doing enough.
Ayesha:
Masha'Allah, Maria. Every act of charity is a blessing, no matter how small. Allah loves those who give sincerely. And don't burden yourself with thoughts of "enough." Allah knows your heart and intentions.
Maria paused, typing carefully.
Maria:
I've been thinking a lot about humanity—how it's understood in Islam versus Christianity. Can you explain how Islam views humanity as a whole?
Ayesha:
Of course. In Islam, humanity is seen as one family, with Adam and Eve as our common ancestors. The Quran emphasizes justice, compassion, and equality. For instance, Surah Al-Hujurat says, "O mankind, We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you."
Maria read the verse twice, feeling its depth.
Maria:
That's so universal. It's less about division and more about unity.
Ayesha:
Exactly, Maria. Islam teaches us to respect all humans, regardless of their faith or background. That's why acts of charity and kindness hold such high importance.
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Exploring New Knowledge
Ayesha shared a series of links, encouraging Maria to explore further. Over the next several nights, Maria delved into the resources, learning about Islamic principles of charity (zakat), kindness to neighbors, and even how Islam encourages respect for people of other faiths.
One night, Maria messaged Ayesha again.
Maria:
Ayesha, these links are incredible. The concept of humanity in Islam resonates with me deeply. But I've noticed there's a lot of emphasis on equality and justice. It's so different from how things are often practiced in the church.
Ayesha:
I'm glad you feel that way, Maria. Islam's core message is peace and justice for all. If you ever have questions, don't hesitate to ask.
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A Question in Class
Fifteen days later, Maria found herself sitting in Sister Barbara's theology class. The session was focused on Christian views of love and compassion. Maria listened quietly, her mind filled with thoughts of what she had recently learned about Islamic perspectives.
As Sister Barbara concluded her lecture, Maria raised her hand.
Maria:
Sister Barbara, may I ask a question?
Sister Barbara:
Of course, Maria. Go ahead.
Maria hesitated for a moment before speaking.
Maria:
I've been thinking about the concept of humanity. Christianity teaches love and compassion, but it often feels like those teachings are limited to Christians. What about people of other faiths? Shouldn't love and kindness extend to everyone equally?
The room fell silent. Sister Barbara's brows furrowed as she considered the question.
Sister Barbara:
Maria, that's an interesting perspective. Of course, we are called to love everyone as God loves us. But…
She paused, clearly searching for the right words.
Sister Barbara:
There are theological nuances. Christianity emphasizes salvation through Christ, so naturally, our primary focus is on guiding others to the faith.
Maria frowned slightly, unsatisfied with the answer.
Maria:
But isn't that limiting? Shouldn't humanity itself be the focus, beyond conversion or salvation?
Sister Barbara's smile faltered.
Sister Barbara:
Maria, these are complex questions that theologians have debated for centuries. Perhaps we can discuss this further after class.
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A Quiet Realization
As the class ended, Maria gathered her books and left the room, her thoughts swirling. Catherine caught up with her in the hallway.
Catherine:
Maria, what was that about? You've been asking such unusual questions lately.
Maria gave her a small smile.
Maria:
I'm just trying to understand things better, Catherine. I feel like there's so much more to faith than what we've been taught.
Catherine looked at her curiously but said nothing more.
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Late-Night Reflection
That night, Maria sat at her desk, typing furiously.
Maria:
Ayesha, I asked my teacher today about humanity in Christianity. She didn't have a clear answer. It made me realize how much more I need to learn.
Ayesha replied quickly.
Ayesha:
That's okay, Maria. Sometimes, not having an answer is a step toward finding the truth. Keep questioning, keep seeking.
Maria leaned back in her chair, staring at the ceiling. The idea of humanity as a unifying force resonated deeply with her. She whispered a prayer, her voice steady.
"God, guide me to the truth. Help me understand Your will."
For the first time, she felt a sense of clarity amidst the questions. Her journey was far from over, but each step felt like a step closer to understanding.