Change is the only constant in life.
Heraclitus
The Parthenon in Athens, Greece is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. A remnant of a society from thousands of years before, it is a beacon of ideals, history, and thought. Having learned about this landmark in school for years, I was surprised to discover a new fact that I had never heard before.
In the centuries following the death of Jesus Christ, this building served many fascinating purposes. It was already an important remainder of Greek civilization. Whatever was housed in the Parthenon would be something powerful and impressive, an organization that deserved to have control over a significant international monument.
You can imagine my surprise when I learned that this building has served as both a Christian church and a Muslim mosque!
I don’t know everything about this building, but I think it’s interesting to learn that any power that took control of Athens in the centuries following the construction of the Parthenon made it a point to appropriate this building. Why would it be important that the Parthenon could be used as a worship space? Maybe to show the power of your religion. Maybe to remind practitioners of the power of the divine above all of mankind’s endeavors. Maybe as a sign to God that you were willing to put Him first.
Where do you worship? And why is that important?
Jesus Christ
Founder and leader of all Christianity. Believed to be the Son of God. Born in Bethlehem around 6-4 BCE. Son of the Virgin Mary. Died around 30 BCE in Jerusalem. The New Testament focuses on Him and His Gospel (meaning His teachings). Teachings focus on honoring God, loving others, the kingdom of God, etc. Performed many miracles. Was captured by the Jews and crucified by the Romans. Believed to have resurrected three days after His death.
“Jesus.” Britannica. (https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jesus/The-relation-of-Jesus-teaching-to-the-Jewish-law)
Mosque/Masjid
“The Mosque is considered to be the community center for Muslims. Better known in Arabic as a Masjid, the mosque represents the nucleus of the Muslim family and community. Daily prayers are offered five times throughout segments of the day. After prayers are offered, Muslims gather for brief discussion and interaction with one another. This interaction maintains a level of unity in the community by fostering social, spiritual, and economic bonds. On Friday afternoons, Muslims hold their weekly congregational prayer known in the Arabic language as Jummah, which means congregation. This weekly ritual provides the Muslim community the opportunity to be reminded and encouraged to live a virtuous life, and to have a positive impact to improve the society and environment in which they live. The message is delivered by the Imam of the Mosque.”
“What is a Masjid.” Islamic Society of Central Florida. (https://iscf.org/masjid/what-is-a-masjid/)
Hallow 
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