Chuck,

If you check American History, you will see a lot of colonies were founded for
religious freedom. As a Baptist, one of our unique features is an emphasis on
religious liberty. We can agree to disagree, but true Chrisitanity seeks
liberty. Also, many of our presidents were Christian or religious. Religious
expression is found in our guiding documents, such as the Dec. of Independence,
and the Constitution.

Islam is not the same as Christianity. Not all religions are the same or teach
the same. Just remember that "theology" can be different, but ethics, such as
the Golden Rule, can be the same.Look at the core beliefs and you will see
major differences. One of the differences is that Islam practices conversion
by the sword. Some misguided Christians in the past have also practiced it,
but as you point out the Sermon on the Mount does not support it.

I am a Christian "fanatic" as it is my job and my passion. It has changed my
life for the better. I vote my Christian beliefs, irregardless of the
political party. And the Bible tells us to pray for the kings over us. Since
we do not have a king, but we can see a principle to pray for our government
leaders - All of them.

It is not lunacy to accept and practice religious belief (and I am talking in
general terms of all the world religions and sects). What is lunacy is to
misapply religion and use for personal gain, to control people or put people
down because of differing beliefs (For more religious discrimination, check out
Islam and Hinduism, and the Eastern Orthodox churches).

As you said, the foundation of American Values is liberty and that includes the
free practice of religious beliefs.

BTW instead of WWJD, WRJU - What Radio would Jesus Use? With all of his
travels, I would guess an FT-817 portable radio. :-)

Randy