Carl Medearis is an expert on Muslim-Christian Relations and the Middle East. John Piper is a famous evangelical pastor and author. What do Carl and John have in common?

Virtually everyone – atheist, animist, secularist, or believer – agrees on one theological doctrine: the world is in a mess. Theologians call this the doctrine of sin or “the fall.” Newspapers call it headlines. Why are we in this holistic mess?

I have the privilege of serving in a denomination that believes in a holistic gospel.  I believe in the spiritual part of life, and I value evangelism as long as we understand it as bearing witness to Jesus and not converting people to Christianity.

What if communities all over the United States - and all over the world - launched Peace Feasts? What if there was a Peace Feast Phoenix, a Peace Feast Chicago, a Peace Feast London, and a Peace Feast Dubai? What if each feast came with an attitude that promotes humbly receiving blessing and generously extending blessing?

In 2004, a group of about 25 people from a small church group met at a Lebanese restaurant near Arizona State University. Each week they came with hungry stomachs and open ears. This group was interested in other cultures, and Ali, the owner of the restaurant, didn’t leave them disappointed.

At Peace Catalyst, we do this thing - which we would love others to reproduce around the world - called Peace Feast. The Peace Feast is a movement of “dinner clubs,” frequently gathering at ethnic restaurants in order to learn about other cultures, enjoy good conversation, and seek the flourishing of their local and global community.

Last week we posted Jim Mullins' story about how he became a peacemaker, and today we'd like to share Michael Ly's. With Buddhist parents, a Jesus-centered faith of his own, and a deep love for his Muslim friends, Michael has quite a story to tell. Don't miss this.

For Jesus, what counts is obedience, not the confession of correct theology.I can imagine what you are thinking as you read this. "Sorry, Rick, but I am saved by faith not by obedience to the great commandments." Really?

We at Peace Catalyst are priveleged to have an ongoing partnership with the Somali Bantu refugee community in Phoenix, and we wanted to share with you a quick video of what goes on at our many weekly English classes. We're so thankful for our amazing new Somali friends and our incredible group of volunteer teachers who make this all possible!