Yazidism is a religion of which most of us have never heard. I only heard of them while reading Nadia Murad’s tragic account of her slavery at the hands of ISIS. Now most Christians would have problems with Yazidism because of some their beliefs, such as reincarnation, but in other ways they have a more accurate concept of what God requires of us.
God doesn’t judge Yazidis based on how often we pray or go on pilgrimages. We don’t have to build elaborate cathedrals or attend years of religious schooling in order to be a god Yazidi. Rituals, like baptism, are performed only when the family has enough money or time to make the trip.
Our faith is in our actions. We welcome strangers into our homes, give money and food to those who have none, and sit with the body of a loved one before burial. Even being a good student or kind to your spouse is an act equal to prayer. [1]
This concept of what God requires of us is remarkably similar to what Jesus taught when he described how he will judge the nations of the world when he returns (see Matthew 25:31-46). His judgment will not be based upon our beliefs but on the actions we take to help those in need.
Does this not illustrate that God gives at least a little light to all the peoples of the world, even those who have not heard of Christ (John 16:7-11)?
_____________________________
[1] Nadia Murad with Jenna Krajeski. The Last Girl. New York: Tim Duggan Books, 2017, p. 115.
